I am still numb on the right side though it varies in intensity. The pain still gets around it at times. I found that the more I move my face the more numb it gets which is great during a flare up. The numbness at its worst is ice cold and I can’t feel food in my cheek which could cause me to choke if I’m not careful. It’s a disturbing feeling to have your face numb and it’s been five years and I’m still not used to it. You can get the procedure repeated as needed if it wears off. To get rid of the pain I would do it again.
I would like to do a Rhyzotomy on my left side but I need one side where I can feel food. Right now it’s ATN constant searing pain, if it gets worse I will try it on the left side. Once the nerve is damaged by a Rhyzotomy it may heal but it most likely never be normal again. It was the right decision for me with 13 meds failed and three MVDs not taking care of the problem.
['Edit: I now realize that your question was meant for Ron. But I've decided to leave my reply in this thread.]
My wife, Alice, had the MVD done at the Victoria General Hospital, in British Columbia. Her neurosurgeon, who was beyond excellent in knowledge, technical ability, and bedside manners, was Dr Fleetwood.
Sleepless said:
Art, where did you have the procedure and what is the name of your doctor?
I was diagnosed March 2015 I have recently been thinking about surgery and everything I have read so far is warning me not to go through with it. It is very nice to hear that you have gained relief from your surgery as so many have not, your description of the approach and surgical action sound like a very reliable method of curing this condition. I am starting to believe that TN should not ever be taken lightly and quick or small surgery should not be considered. I would love to hear more about your recovery and success with your recent and upcoming procedures. Peace love and truth be at your side I wish you all the best
Well, this is an old post I made..... I have also since had surgery also on the right side (same operations: MVD/Partial Sensory Rhizotomy. My pain was not relieved long term on the left side by the operation. The pain was just "changed". The right side did respond a bit better. Side effect wise, the worst was being left with a burning tongue. I recently discovered that there is an underlying cause to my tn, one that is incredibly rare. Since I have been controlling this, my pain has been almost non existent. An underlying cause is not there for most people though sadly.
I will say, if you are considering surgery, see someone who is very experienced in TN surgery and does it a lot. Hear out all the options and make the decision that's best for you.
LexxisStrong said:
I was diagnosed March 2015 I have recently been thinking about surgery and everything I have read so far is warning me not to go through with it. It is very nice to hear that you have gained relief from your surgery as so many have not, your description of the approach and surgical action sound like a very reliable method of curing this condition. I am starting to believe that TN should not ever be taken lightly and quick or small surgery should not be considered. I would love to hear more about your recovery and success with your recent and upcoming procedures. Peace love and truth be at your side I wish you all the best