I’m scheduled for a styloidectomy with Dr. Cognetti next week on the 14th. During my consultation, I expressed concerns about vagus nerve entrapment, as autonomic dysfunction is my worst symptom. However, he didn’t reassure me that my calcified styloid could be the cause. He also mentioned that his surgical approach would be the same regardless.
Has anyone experienced relief from autonomic dysfunction, particularly gastroparesis or poor gut motility, after a styloidectomy? Would a neurologist need to be involved to properly address vagus nerve compression? I’m hoping my digestive issues improve after surgery. Any insights or experiences would be greatly appreciated.
Hi. Yes I had severe gastroparesis prior to surgery which developed rapidly over a few months. It got very severe very fast and for about 5 days prior to surgery I could not eat a single mouthful of food because once anything entered my stomach I would immediately get extreme and severe belching.
This resolved pretty much immediately after surgery and decompression of the vagus nerve. The day after surgery I was eating full meals.
I am sure you might have come across the Waldock paper which describes a similar case:
That is so inspiring to hear that the resolution of symptoms were immediate. I am so ready for my stomach to rumble once again. Did you have a c1 shave like in the case study? Also do you have any advice for things I should discuss with my surgeon. I feel like I am so close to a solution, i just really want to get this right.
Yes I had a C1 shave as well. Dr. Kamran Aghayev was my surgeon.
You could ask your surgeon if he severs the belly of the diagastric muscle and/or dissects the occipital artery, as these have recently been acknowledged to be additional sources of compression of the jugular vein.
One of our members, @GrnyAny did a very detailed post about vagus nerve symptoms which were resolved with surgery, you might find it helpful: Successful Surgery for severe Vagus Nerve Compression - General / Eagle Syndrome Stories - Living with Eagle
Most doctors do monitor nerves to make sure that they’re not being stressed during the surgery too much, but I don’t think that includes the vagus nerve. Hopefully in removing your styloid that will be enough to stop any compression or irritation of the vagus nerve. But be prepared that you may not feel instant relief, as nerves can take months to heal, and it could be if the nerve gets irritated during surgery, it could make those symptoms flare up & worsen temporarily.
I’ll pray for good results from your surgery, Dr Cognetti is an experienced doctor & has done many successful surgeries for members
@Isa.Wad55 - I’ve put your surgery on my calendar so I can pray for you that day & am already praying for your desired outcome. Many of our members have had significant symptoms caused by the vagus nerve which have varied from gastrointestinal to heart, blood pressure, breathing, & vocal issues to name a few of the more common complaints. In most cases our members have had symptoms relief once the pressure of the styloid is taken off the vagus nerve, however, as @Jules noted, it can take time & symptoms can come & go as the nerve is healing post op. Immediate relief like @Bowser experienced is unusual but is a huge blessing when it happens.
