teinehamo08
11-21-2008, 01:30 PM
I'm a seventeen year old female with temporal lobe seizures, who is thinking about getting surgery to prevent seizures. I was wondering if there was anyone who has had the surgery done and what your experience was after the surgery. thanks
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LadyItalian
11-21-2008, 10:12 PM
I had brain surgery to remove a tumor & I was having right temprol lobe seizures, so my situation is different. But I did have a co-worker have brain surgery for seizures, and as far as I know, it had worked for her. Brain surgery is the RISKIEST kind of surgery, you can suffer hemrage, stroke, brain damage or dealth if something goes wrong. I had a stroke during mine, took me years to recoup (again mine was diff) but the brain is the most sensitive organ. RESEARCH other peoples outcomes, search all over the web & get as much research about your medical facility & surgeon as you can.
030free
11-23-2008, 04:25 PM
I was diagnosed with seizures 15 yrs ago, and I underwent Right Anterior Temporal Lobectomy April/2008 (age 26), and so far I been seizure free. Its not a easy decision to make, It wasnt for me, but it was the best decision I could have made in my life. To begin, they will need a series of test done to figure out what type of seizures you have and where they originated. To decide wether you are or not a candidate they must make sure that surgery is not going to effect your motor skills, speech, or memory. My surgery was a success Thank God, Im still on meds, but Neuro is thinking of taking me off next April so I can finally Become pregnant... The surgery itself was not bad, but post surgery recovery annoyed me since I had to wait months 2 get back on my feet. Anyways I hope you are a candidate and that surgery could help you, since nowdays its a very common procedure. If u have other concerns write, but remember to write all major questions down, to ask your neuro..
Laura
Laura
teinehamo08
11-26-2008, 02:11 PM
Thank you both for your response. I will have a video EEG done soon and will find out more about the pros and cons and whether or not I'm a good candidate. Hopefully it will be an option for me. I have seizures on a frequent basis (2-4 a month) and it makes it impossible to drive and keep a job. I want to go to college and live a normal life as much as possible.
Thanks again, I'll keep you posted with any updates.
Thanks again, I'll keep you posted with any updates.
Sherri5186
12-05-2008, 09:00 PM
I had a left anterior lobectomy.I am 45 and starting having seizures
at age 4.I can tell you since surgery I haven't any problems as
far as speech,my memory is not any worse than it was before due
to all the seizures I had in my life.But,unfortunately my seizures have
not all went away,I still have seizures,but, no where the amount I did
prior.Before surgery I had them every two weeks,due to hormones,
I have catamenial epilepsy.The month right before surgery I had 32
seizures that month,now I might have one every 6 or 8 weeks.I have
also noticed since surgery I have a little blurred vision,and I had to
get much stronger reading glasses, and if I read too long I will get a
very bad headache that may last a few hours,since then they started
me on migraine pills,but,it only controls a little.Sorry for the bad news,
but,don't let this discourage you,my family keeps reminding me how bad
everything was before surgery.If you have questions,I'll be more than
glad to help the best I can.
at age 4.I can tell you since surgery I haven't any problems as
far as speech,my memory is not any worse than it was before due
to all the seizures I had in my life.But,unfortunately my seizures have
not all went away,I still have seizures,but, no where the amount I did
prior.Before surgery I had them every two weeks,due to hormones,
I have catamenial epilepsy.The month right before surgery I had 32
seizures that month,now I might have one every 6 or 8 weeks.I have
also noticed since surgery I have a little blurred vision,and I had to
get much stronger reading glasses, and if I read too long I will get a
very bad headache that may last a few hours,since then they started
me on migraine pills,but,it only controls a little.Sorry for the bad news,
but,don't let this discourage you,my family keeps reminding me how bad
everything was before surgery.If you have questions,I'll be more than
glad to help the best I can.
kyestar
12-10-2008, 01:32 PM
In early June 2007, I was diagnosed with epilepsy caused by a brain tumour, apparently within my left temporal lobe. I underwent surgery later that month to remove the tumour, following which I was informed that my epilepsy was "gone". I continued to have seizures (complex partial), but was assured by my neurosurgeon that these were panic attacks. All of my subsequent MRIs appeared fine.
In July 2008, I began having seizures on a non-stop basis, and was admitted to hospital through emergency. A new MRI was performed (from a new radiology clinic) and it was revealed that a tumour apparently the size of a tennis ball remains in my head. A comparison was made between my earliest MRI and my most recent - it shows that there has been no tumour growth, but rather that only a small (golf ball sized) portion of the tumour was removed.
I was very frustrated as I was never told that there was any tumour left behind - in fact, I was told the opposite, and made to feel as though it was my fault that the seizures were apparently continuing.
As my seizures have not responded to any medication to date, I am scheduled for further surgery in January 2009. The surgery is apparently "too risky" because of the area involved - I have to travel interstate to have it performed, as each neurosurgeon in this state has refused to treat me.
In terms of side effects from my first surgery, I suffered memory loss and general lack of normal interaction skills for the first couple of weeks after surgery (most likely also as a result of the heavy medication that I was on). I now have no memory (or very few memories) of the first few weeks after surgery. After that time, I noticed some speech difficulties (difficulties in finding words) which frustrated me greatly. However, this improved within a couple/few months of the date of surgery. I also became quite depressed and suicidal, and at no time was comfortable being left alone. I was also constantly distressed at the scar, and the loss of hair.
I understand that the next surgery carries greater risk of damage to my memory and language. I am very uncomfortable with this, as memory and language are the central requirements of my profession. However, I am currently unable to work at all, as I am generally having seizures on a daily basis (or sometimes several times a day) - although I have now not seized for around 4 days.
I'd recommend diarising your seizures - write down when they happened (both dates and times), what you were doing/how you were feeling beforehand, the particular type of seizure you had and what that involved (including whether it was especially severe, mild etc), and how you felt afterwards. This provides me with a good reference point as I generally do not remember my seizures (or rather, I remember that there was one, but I don't know when it was), or exactly how it felt. Although I have not done this, I imagine that you could have someone else keep the record for you if you were not able to do so due to tiredness/sleep etc afterwards. I'd also include any other relevant information such as dates of medication alterations, hospital admissions - anything that is important to your particular case.
I'm happy to discuss this with you further if you like :)
Hope this helps xx
In July 2008, I began having seizures on a non-stop basis, and was admitted to hospital through emergency. A new MRI was performed (from a new radiology clinic) and it was revealed that a tumour apparently the size of a tennis ball remains in my head. A comparison was made between my earliest MRI and my most recent - it shows that there has been no tumour growth, but rather that only a small (golf ball sized) portion of the tumour was removed.
I was very frustrated as I was never told that there was any tumour left behind - in fact, I was told the opposite, and made to feel as though it was my fault that the seizures were apparently continuing.
As my seizures have not responded to any medication to date, I am scheduled for further surgery in January 2009. The surgery is apparently "too risky" because of the area involved - I have to travel interstate to have it performed, as each neurosurgeon in this state has refused to treat me.
In terms of side effects from my first surgery, I suffered memory loss and general lack of normal interaction skills for the first couple of weeks after surgery (most likely also as a result of the heavy medication that I was on). I now have no memory (or very few memories) of the first few weeks after surgery. After that time, I noticed some speech difficulties (difficulties in finding words) which frustrated me greatly. However, this improved within a couple/few months of the date of surgery. I also became quite depressed and suicidal, and at no time was comfortable being left alone. I was also constantly distressed at the scar, and the loss of hair.
I understand that the next surgery carries greater risk of damage to my memory and language. I am very uncomfortable with this, as memory and language are the central requirements of my profession. However, I am currently unable to work at all, as I am generally having seizures on a daily basis (or sometimes several times a day) - although I have now not seized for around 4 days.
I'd recommend diarising your seizures - write down when they happened (both dates and times), what you were doing/how you were feeling beforehand, the particular type of seizure you had and what that involved (including whether it was especially severe, mild etc), and how you felt afterwards. This provides me with a good reference point as I generally do not remember my seizures (or rather, I remember that there was one, but I don't know when it was), or exactly how it felt. Although I have not done this, I imagine that you could have someone else keep the record for you if you were not able to do so due to tiredness/sleep etc afterwards. I'd also include any other relevant information such as dates of medication alterations, hospital admissions - anything that is important to your particular case.
I'm happy to discuss this with you further if you like :)
Hope this helps xx
030free
12-10-2008, 02:38 PM
Kyestar, Im very sorry to hear of your first surgery, but due hope things turn better on your second surgery next year. I had my right temporal surgery also in 2007 but thankfully been fine since. I due hear the left temporal is more complexed. I will keep you on my prayers, but let us know how it goes... Best of luck to you
laura
laura
jvmtaz
12-17-2008, 09:06 PM
Laura:
I just got back from meeting my neurosurgeon. I am scheduled for Liesionectomy and lobectomy at the end of January or beginning Feb.
I just got back from meeting my neurosurgeon. I am scheduled for Liesionectomy and lobectomy at the end of January or beginning Feb.
030free
12-17-2008, 09:37 PM
which lobe is your surgery R/L? This surgery will be similar to mine. I had Right Anterior Temporal Lobectomy for Mesial Sclerosis (hardend tissues) due to brain injury, and I had intractable epilepsy (which meant meds couldnt help my problem, only surgery)... I had a quarter of my right temporal lobe and medial Hyppocampus removed, but it was necessary for my freedom. Have you had all your exams done (EEGs, MRIs, and pre-surgical test, such as the WADA test done?) What is the surgeon's prognosis on your case? make sure your satisfied with their findings and decisions before you undergo such procedure. In my case I must say I was scarred but very hopeful of a brighter seizureless future, so if this is what it takes I tell you to go on. Do study lots I did for 2 years, any other questions you'll like to ask, Im here... Things will be just fine :)
laura
laura
zachboy
12-17-2008, 09:43 PM
I've had epilepsy since I was 3 after falling down a flight of stairs. My complex partial seizures could never be controlled with medication. I had 2 to 3 seizures per week until the neuorsurgery in 1990. I had right temporal lobe surgery performed at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. I'm 40 now and have not had a seizure in over a decade. Last one I had was when I forgot to take tegretol that morning. I still have epilepsy but the seizures are controlled with 1500mg of Keppra per day.
The nerosurgery had no effect on my brain function. I got a BSEE degree with a 3.8 GPA in 1994. The neurosurgery was life risking but was well worth it.:)
The nerosurgery had no effect on my brain function. I got a BSEE degree with a 3.8 GPA in 1994. The neurosurgery was life risking but was well worth it.:)
jvmtaz
12-17-2008, 09:45 PM
Hi Laura:
Left temporal lobe. I was on this site many times in the past but the site and all of its post are closed.
I've been on a roller coaster of emotions arriving at my final decision. I had a difficult time keeping myself composed in the presence of my wife. I care for her more than life itself.
My major concern has always been not to leave her in a situation where I might become a burden upon her and her quality of life.
The doctors believe I have a very good chance of becomming seizure free after 50 years of being subject to complex partial seizures.
So today I have been given the go ahead for the surgery.
Jim
Left temporal lobe. I was on this site many times in the past but the site and all of its post are closed.
I've been on a roller coaster of emotions arriving at my final decision. I had a difficult time keeping myself composed in the presence of my wife. I care for her more than life itself.
My major concern has always been not to leave her in a situation where I might become a burden upon her and her quality of life.
The doctors believe I have a very good chance of becomming seizure free after 50 years of being subject to complex partial seizures.
So today I have been given the go ahead for the surgery.
Jim
030free
12-18-2008, 01:42 PM
Jim,
I know exactly how you are feeling. Today is actually been 1yrs and 8 months since my surgery, and so far so good. I felt just like you prior to my surgery, but I know if this is going to change your life forever after so long, your wife will be so happy as well. Yes its difficult at first, I only had my husband helping me and cooking for me, but he was happier to help me for a few weeks than a whole life putting up with my seizures...lol Trust me as long as your mentally ready, which is the most important thing, and you know you'll be surrounded by loving people after surgery, you should feel lucky. Remember that you will have to be immobile for the first few days, well u need to avoid pushing or pulling things, no bending over, no exercising, and noise and lights will bother you for a while, it did to me. I was in the hospital for 9 days, but I had high fever that wouldnt go down without antibiotics, aside from that everything else went good, I didn't even take pain killers after arriving home. I had a lot of emotional changes due to brain swelling, crying and anger for no reason, but its normal. Do what I did, sit down and speak with your wife and family of all changes to come, and they will understand, make sure you teach them about the procedure and what to expect post-surgery, trust me it helped my husband (I was surprised of his understanding and help). As for you, study all about the procedure, prepare your house, so everything is reachable without bending, and your bed needs to be raised for your head, to avoid blood cloths or pressure. There is lots to discussed when it comes to this surgery, but for now make sure you asked your surgeon about post-surgery effects, and recommendations. I lost my upper left eye peripheral vision, but was told prior to surgery, it was a small price to price to pay for freedom, but I'm used to it now. Anyways sorry for a long post, but keep me updated. Trust in God things will be fine, Ill be praying for you....
Laura
I know exactly how you are feeling. Today is actually been 1yrs and 8 months since my surgery, and so far so good. I felt just like you prior to my surgery, but I know if this is going to change your life forever after so long, your wife will be so happy as well. Yes its difficult at first, I only had my husband helping me and cooking for me, but he was happier to help me for a few weeks than a whole life putting up with my seizures...lol Trust me as long as your mentally ready, which is the most important thing, and you know you'll be surrounded by loving people after surgery, you should feel lucky. Remember that you will have to be immobile for the first few days, well u need to avoid pushing or pulling things, no bending over, no exercising, and noise and lights will bother you for a while, it did to me. I was in the hospital for 9 days, but I had high fever that wouldnt go down without antibiotics, aside from that everything else went good, I didn't even take pain killers after arriving home. I had a lot of emotional changes due to brain swelling, crying and anger for no reason, but its normal. Do what I did, sit down and speak with your wife and family of all changes to come, and they will understand, make sure you teach them about the procedure and what to expect post-surgery, trust me it helped my husband (I was surprised of his understanding and help). As for you, study all about the procedure, prepare your house, so everything is reachable without bending, and your bed needs to be raised for your head, to avoid blood cloths or pressure. There is lots to discussed when it comes to this surgery, but for now make sure you asked your surgeon about post-surgery effects, and recommendations. I lost my upper left eye peripheral vision, but was told prior to surgery, it was a small price to price to pay for freedom, but I'm used to it now. Anyways sorry for a long post, but keep me updated. Trust in God things will be fine, Ill be praying for you....
Laura
jvmtaz
12-18-2008, 10:47 PM
Laura:
Thank you for your words of encouragement and support. It means a hell of alot to both me and my wife. The surgeon mentioned that the sight restriction as a possibility but not a certainty.
That was my initial concern some time ago when I was reviewing the role and proximity of the "Ventral Stream" in the Temporal Lobe.
Have you experienced any memory problems? That was the doctors major emphasis of possible ramifications from surgery.
Thanks and I will keep in touch.
Thank you for your words of encouragement and support. It means a hell of alot to both me and my wife. The surgeon mentioned that the sight restriction as a possibility but not a certainty.
That was my initial concern some time ago when I was reviewing the role and proximity of the "Ventral Stream" in the Temporal Lobe.
Have you experienced any memory problems? That was the doctors major emphasis of possible ramifications from surgery.
Thanks and I will keep in touch.
030free
12-19-2008, 01:58 PM
Jim,
In general due to memory and speech locations in the brain, left lobe surgery is more complexed than right lobe surgery. I underwent right temporal and prior to my surgery I had very bad memory and my neuro-psych eval. showed problems in short term memory either through vision or verbal.. Post-surgery neuro-psych showed the opposite effects, my memory had been restored, and even my reflexes were better. According to the doctor, the bad tissue in my right lobe was suppressing my left lobe causing memory problems, but since they removed it, my memory had return and my left hemisphere is much stronger since it's what my brain is depending on..lol i can say for sure that same results can or cant result in your case, but I have spoken to individuals who underwent your type of surgery and they had amazing results, 10 yrs seizure free, no memory problems and better lives. Once again only your neuro surgeon knows for sure how your outcome will turn out depending on where he's cutting. Make sure you ask if it's necessary to invade and cut through such areas, what will the outcomes be, and if they can be avoidable? So far how was your neuro-psych eval?
In general due to memory and speech locations in the brain, left lobe surgery is more complexed than right lobe surgery. I underwent right temporal and prior to my surgery I had very bad memory and my neuro-psych eval. showed problems in short term memory either through vision or verbal.. Post-surgery neuro-psych showed the opposite effects, my memory had been restored, and even my reflexes were better. According to the doctor, the bad tissue in my right lobe was suppressing my left lobe causing memory problems, but since they removed it, my memory had return and my left hemisphere is much stronger since it's what my brain is depending on..lol i can say for sure that same results can or cant result in your case, but I have spoken to individuals who underwent your type of surgery and they had amazing results, 10 yrs seizure free, no memory problems and better lives. Once again only your neuro surgeon knows for sure how your outcome will turn out depending on where he's cutting. Make sure you ask if it's necessary to invade and cut through such areas, what will the outcomes be, and if they can be avoidable? So far how was your neuro-psych eval?
jvmtaz
12-20-2008, 12:49 PM
Laura:
I performed quite well on my neuro-psy. test, maybe akin to genius, LOL.
I did have problems with short term memory, especially hearing memory. Sight memory was good and analytical skills were above normal.
I will be anxious to learn of the post surgery results. Hopefully they will be as good if not better.
I performed quite well on my neuro-psy. test, maybe akin to genius, LOL.
I did have problems with short term memory, especially hearing memory. Sight memory was good and analytical skills were above normal.
I will be anxious to learn of the post surgery results. Hopefully they will be as good if not better.
030free
12-21-2008, 05:09 PM
I bet the post-surgery exam will be even better. I like your positive attitude :) continue to prepare for next year, (ill be around in case you have more questions) but for now enjoy the holidays with your family, and may the new year bring you complete freedom as 2007 did for me..
Godbless
Laura :wave:
Godbless
Laura :wave:
Sherri5186
12-29-2008, 08:19 PM
Yes,my memory has gotten worse since surgery,not right away,
but,I have noticed when talking to friends and family I don't
remember alot they are talking about(mainly short term).My seizures
have lessened,but,a few weeks before Christmas I had a GM and it
was the worst seizure I have ever had in 40 years,sorry to say,first
time during a GM I lost bladder control and cannot tell you much about
the next 48 hours,worst I ever chewed up my tongue and I mainly
always had complex partials just a very few GM seizures before surgery.
Like I said before though the amount of seizures I have now at this
point seems to have cut back a little,I was having them every 2 weeks
and 32 one month,now I have maybe 1-3 every 4-6 weeks,until this GM
I was only having very mild ones,did not take as long to get myself back
together afterwards.Feel free to ask any questions.Good-luck
but,I have noticed when talking to friends and family I don't
remember alot they are talking about(mainly short term).My seizures
have lessened,but,a few weeks before Christmas I had a GM and it
was the worst seizure I have ever had in 40 years,sorry to say,first
time during a GM I lost bladder control and cannot tell you much about
the next 48 hours,worst I ever chewed up my tongue and I mainly
always had complex partials just a very few GM seizures before surgery.
Like I said before though the amount of seizures I have now at this
point seems to have cut back a little,I was having them every 2 weeks
and 32 one month,now I have maybe 1-3 every 4-6 weeks,until this GM
I was only having very mild ones,did not take as long to get myself back
together afterwards.Feel free to ask any questions.Good-luck
030free
12-30-2008, 05:08 PM
Jim,
hope you had a nice Christmas, as we prior discussed, not all post-surgery side effects are similar (ranging from headaches to memory problems).. As I told you before, only your neuro-surgeon can give you his best diagnosis for your specific case. As you can see surgery has helped a big percentage of individuals and a small percentage had no change or worsened.. Once again discussed all possible scenarios with your surgeon and keep up your faith that your surgery, as mine was would be a success with minor side effects. I wish you and your family the best for the New Year, and will be praying for your surgery... God bless :D
Laura
hope you had a nice Christmas, as we prior discussed, not all post-surgery side effects are similar (ranging from headaches to memory problems).. As I told you before, only your neuro-surgeon can give you his best diagnosis for your specific case. As you can see surgery has helped a big percentage of individuals and a small percentage had no change or worsened.. Once again discussed all possible scenarios with your surgeon and keep up your faith that your surgery, as mine was would be a success with minor side effects. I wish you and your family the best for the New Year, and will be praying for your surgery... God bless :D
Laura
kyestar
01-25-2009, 09:29 PM
I am having temporal lobe surgery (again) on Thursday...
030free
01-26-2009, 06:33 PM
OMG, I wish you the best of luck and we'll keep you on our prayers... Hopefully this second surgery will completly cure your seizures for good ;)
Laura
Laura
jvmtaz
01-30-2009, 09:42 PM
[QUOTE=030free;3833135]
Laura:
I am set for my left temporal lobe surgery(amygdalohippocampectomy). The surgery will take place this upcomming Tuesday, February 3. I have been "nesting" for the past three weeks. You would think I'm pregnant but that (thank god) is impossible. I needed to get the yard and other areas of my property taken care of before it all goes to H#!!88%$#.
The doctor and I reviewed the MRI together. The lesions in the left temporal lobe were quite obvious. There was also a notable difference in the corresponding regions. The area of focus (left temporal lobe) was notably smaller than the corresponding area in the right temporal lobe.
Hopefully I will realize my dreams to be free of this condition that has impacted my life for half a century.
Regardless of what happens, I will keep you posted.
Thanks for your support.
Jim
Laura:
I am set for my left temporal lobe surgery(amygdalohippocampectomy). The surgery will take place this upcomming Tuesday, February 3. I have been "nesting" for the past three weeks. You would think I'm pregnant but that (thank god) is impossible. I needed to get the yard and other areas of my property taken care of before it all goes to H#!!88%$#.
The doctor and I reviewed the MRI together. The lesions in the left temporal lobe were quite obvious. There was also a notable difference in the corresponding regions. The area of focus (left temporal lobe) was notably smaller than the corresponding area in the right temporal lobe.
Hopefully I will realize my dreams to be free of this condition that has impacted my life for half a century.
Regardless of what happens, I will keep you posted.
Thanks for your support.
Jim
jvmtaz
02-23-2009, 01:36 AM
Hello to everyone:
I have finished my surgery and presently feel fantastic. I did encounter some alergies to some of the post operation drugs. The hospital took great care of that temporary problem.
The medical staff was terrific. I am forever grateful to each and every staff member at the hospital. They were incredible people whom I will never forget.
I am most greatful to my wife. I love her even more. She is the most precious human for me.
I want to thank everyone here who have helped me over a long period of time.
If my success continues, I hope I will be able to assist others. I have offered volunteerism, to my hospital, to assist in any way they deem appropriate.
Thanks again to all of you.
Jim
I have finished my surgery and presently feel fantastic. I did encounter some alergies to some of the post operation drugs. The hospital took great care of that temporary problem.
The medical staff was terrific. I am forever grateful to each and every staff member at the hospital. They were incredible people whom I will never forget.
I am most greatful to my wife. I love her even more. She is the most precious human for me.
I want to thank everyone here who have helped me over a long period of time.
If my success continues, I hope I will be able to assist others. I have offered volunteerism, to my hospital, to assist in any way they deem appropriate.
Thanks again to all of you.
Jim
Amber Jewell
03-17-2009, 09:24 PM
So, I am getting ready for my temporal lobe surgery and I was wondering...will they shave my head? (Will I need a wig?) I'm really nervous about headaches and the vision loss they talk about! Is there anything I should be particuarly nervous about, for instance, how long it will be until I can talk again?
030free
03-18-2009, 03:24 PM
Jim,
CONGRATULATIONS, this was a big mile stone and you came out good. I remember that feeling, still its only been a few weeks so you need lots of rest and take it easy. I was waitting for you to reply and Im so glad to hear your ok, you haven't had any spells post surgery due to brain swelling?
Hi, Amber Jewell Lets begin by asking what type of surgery will you be undergoing? left or right? what's your diagnosis? I joined this site years ago when I was having my surgery and I had the same questions you have.. surgery went well and today I hit 23 months seizure free Post surgery :D yeah so we'll asnwer your questions to the best of our abilities. I didnt get my hair shaved but an inch which is where the surgeon cut, and my hair grow back quick, noone can tell I had surgery. I have no speech, hearring or motor skills problems, intead my memory inproved post surgery. Give us more info...
laura
CONGRATULATIONS, this was a big mile stone and you came out good. I remember that feeling, still its only been a few weeks so you need lots of rest and take it easy. I was waitting for you to reply and Im so glad to hear your ok, you haven't had any spells post surgery due to brain swelling?
Hi, Amber Jewell Lets begin by asking what type of surgery will you be undergoing? left or right? what's your diagnosis? I joined this site years ago when I was having my surgery and I had the same questions you have.. surgery went well and today I hit 23 months seizure free Post surgery :D yeah so we'll asnwer your questions to the best of our abilities. I didnt get my hair shaved but an inch which is where the surgeon cut, and my hair grow back quick, noone can tell I had surgery. I have no speech, hearring or motor skills problems, intead my memory inproved post surgery. Give us more info...
laura
jvmtaz
03-18-2009, 03:53 PM
Hi Amber:
Each patient is unique. I can only described my experience for treating Complex Partial Seizures originating in my Left Temporal Lobe. It is my hope that all patients will do as well as I. I wish each and every one of them the best. The following is my personal experience.
I shaved my own head many weeks before the surgery. Being a guy, it was kind of a humorous action on my part. The sugery team did some additional shaving in the area where the incision would occur. My hair is now growing back pretty well. I doubt I will shave it again to be completly bald. My wife does not appreciate me, intentionally, going bald, . But I must say it was very comfortable and required less attention, on my part.
I have not experienced any headache pain since the surgery. I was give medications for any pain but have not needed them.
Prior to the surgery the medical staff discussed the possibility of some peripheral vision loss. They indicated if it did occur it would be in the uppper outter most area and not be a major loss. The doctors and myself were very happy that I did not experience any such loss.
Regarding speach I have not had any loss. I could speak to the doctors immediately after my surgery.
Please be certain to keep us informed of your results. All of us do care for you.
Sincerely,
Jim
Each patient is unique. I can only described my experience for treating Complex Partial Seizures originating in my Left Temporal Lobe. It is my hope that all patients will do as well as I. I wish each and every one of them the best. The following is my personal experience.
I shaved my own head many weeks before the surgery. Being a guy, it was kind of a humorous action on my part. The sugery team did some additional shaving in the area where the incision would occur. My hair is now growing back pretty well. I doubt I will shave it again to be completly bald. My wife does not appreciate me, intentionally, going bald, . But I must say it was very comfortable and required less attention, on my part.
I have not experienced any headache pain since the surgery. I was give medications for any pain but have not needed them.
Prior to the surgery the medical staff discussed the possibility of some peripheral vision loss. They indicated if it did occur it would be in the uppper outter most area and not be a major loss. The doctors and myself were very happy that I did not experience any such loss.
Regarding speach I have not had any loss. I could speak to the doctors immediately after my surgery.
Please be certain to keep us informed of your results. All of us do care for you.
Sincerely,
Jim
Amber Jewell
03-19-2009, 08:43 PM
Thanks! So, my surgery will be for the Left temporal lobe. I have partial complex due to abuse when I was younger; sometimes I have grand mals. I have a similar scar on the right side but it is not yet causing seizures. I was taking two medications but got off Keppra because it was making everything worse. During my WADA test I couldn't speak at all with the left side and my vision got really bad. My doctor said they will wake me up during the surgery to test my speech; they do that to you, Jim? I usually heal really well so I hope it will go well but my surgery was origonally scheduled for after my college graduation in May. Last week they moved it up because my doctor is resigning (sp?)! I was told to ask off work and school for about eight weeks. So, now, I just am not prepared and it's a little overwhelming.
And Jim, that is funny that you shaved your head anyway!
And Jim, that is funny that you shaved your head anyway!
030free
03-20-2009, 12:50 PM
In regards to being awake during surgery is normal, they want to make sure they dont mess with any vital tissues such as speech, hearring or vision. I know people who've been awake all 8 hours easy. The amount of time off for recuperation is about 15-18 weeks but that depends on your body's process of healling and you might heal faster so you might be able to get to school/work sooner than expected who knows.. Anyways I still wish you the best on your operation and will keep you in our prayers...;)
laura
laura
slsmith1122
03-20-2009, 08:14 PM
I've had epilepsy since I was 3 after falling down a flight of stairs. My complex partial seizures could never be controlled with medication. I had 2 to 3 seizures per week until the neuorsurgery in 1990. I had right temporal lobe surgery performed at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. I'm 40 now and have not had a seizure in over a decade. Last one I had was when I forgot to take tegretol that morning. I still have epilepsy but the seizures are controlled with 1500mg of Keppra per day.
The nerosurgery had no effect on my brain function. I got a BSEE degree with a 3.8 GPA in 1994. The neurosurgery was life risking but was well worth it.:)
how does the Keppra affect you? Ive had two doses and feel drunk!
I wont be able to work taking this. Does it get better? If so, how ling does it take?
The nerosurgery had no effect on my brain function. I got a BSEE degree with a 3.8 GPA in 1994. The neurosurgery was life risking but was well worth it.:)
how does the Keppra affect you? Ive had two doses and feel drunk!
I wont be able to work taking this. Does it get better? If so, how ling does it take?
jvmtaz
03-21-2009, 09:08 PM
Amber:
In the Epilepsy Specializaing Department I was seeing two doctors. I was under many tests by one doctor, over an extended period of time. He and his supporting staff were wonderful people. He would meet with the surgeon and other medical staff to report all findings. It was determined by these team members that I was an appropriate candidate for the surgery. The location of actual injury to my left temporal lobe was determined to be in an area that did not interact with my visual or language area. They were definitely correct in that judgement for my particular situation.
Are you only seeing one doctor? The doctor who performed all testing indicated, to me, that the doctor to perform the surgery will determine a much earlier curing time than he. It was my understanding that the surgical doctor would be judging the healing time from the actual surgery. The other doctor determined there are additional matters to consider.
The doctor with whom I performed all testing said he estimates a much longer healing process . Consequently, that doctor has determined that I will not be ready to return to work until the first of June.
I know from my personal experience that I would not be ready to return to my very challenging work schedule in as little as 8 weeks. You might wish to make inquires about an appropriate cural time that will permit you to work appropriately.
Hope all goes well for you.
Jim
In the Epilepsy Specializaing Department I was seeing two doctors. I was under many tests by one doctor, over an extended period of time. He and his supporting staff were wonderful people. He would meet with the surgeon and other medical staff to report all findings. It was determined by these team members that I was an appropriate candidate for the surgery. The location of actual injury to my left temporal lobe was determined to be in an area that did not interact with my visual or language area. They were definitely correct in that judgement for my particular situation.
Are you only seeing one doctor? The doctor who performed all testing indicated, to me, that the doctor to perform the surgery will determine a much earlier curing time than he. It was my understanding that the surgical doctor would be judging the healing time from the actual surgery. The other doctor determined there are additional matters to consider.
The doctor with whom I performed all testing said he estimates a much longer healing process . Consequently, that doctor has determined that I will not be ready to return to work until the first of June.
I know from my personal experience that I would not be ready to return to my very challenging work schedule in as little as 8 weeks. You might wish to make inquires about an appropriate cural time that will permit you to work appropriately.
Hope all goes well for you.
Jim