This is terrific news, @Northerndad. Thank you for the update. Please let us know the date your surgery gets scheduled. I’ll pray for you then.
1 Like
That’s really good, glad they’re doing external surgery ! Hope all goes okay with the next stage 
1 Like
Hi everyone…
Had the meeting with the vascular surgeon.
The pseudo-aneurysm does not concern her very much, it’s only 6mm, her usual procedure would be to let it as is and have routine scans (yearly) to check if it worsens or heals.
She might prep my leg for a carotid stent in case something bad happens during the procedure.
She will share the pictures with colleagues to see if they would pre-stent. Apparently I’m a particular case…
I will be honest I’m not interested in stenting unless absolutely necessary, especially for something she told me could heal on it’s own. I’ll see… awaiting more phone calls.
(Also saw the images and the styloid is only 2.5mm away from my carotid, meaning it irritates the artery everytime is turn my head !)
2 Likes
I think the fact that i go into these appointments with abundant research puts the doctors at ease with explaining the intricacies of every procedure and potential consequences.
Double edge sword, i like learning and knowing but im starting to yearn for a “everything will be alright” response 
Oh well, never thought i would be this busted up at only 30 years old. I just hope i can see my children grow up…
1 Like
That’s good if she feels you won’t need a stent, it sounds as if she’s honest which is better than a gungho surgeon! And of course you’re worried, it’s normal…let us know when you get a date so we can pray for you
2 Likes
Hey all,
Lot of back and forth between doctors, might have to get the operation in a bigger hospital with neuro-vascular experts. Depends on the surgeon, all the vascular experts that have revised the file say theres no real danger and she can proceed at my local hospital.
It’s happening next week, will get confirmation soon on exact date and time 
2 Likes
I’m sorry your case has been pushed around a bit but am glad the surgeons are being cautious so you get the care you need. Exciting news that you’ll finally have surgery next week! I’ll look for your post w/ the date. 
1 Like
Good luck from a fellow Canadian also having surgery soon - next Tuesday in Toronto!
4 Likes
@AS2005 That sounds very promising - I hope Canada finally starts doing these procedures on a regular basis!
4 Likes
So i got another call from my surgeon, the local hospital would need to transfer me if my aneurysm bleeds, to the nearest capable center (an hour away). As they wont have a specialist on site or the tech to do it.
She says the risk is minimal but to consider it. If i dont want to take the risk i have to be transferred to another doctor in a city that offers this … aka waiting for another 2 years…
I have the weekend to think about it…
Note: there will still be vascular surgeons on standby, but they’re not equipped to do neuro interventions (the aneurysm is close to the brain).
The transfer time could leave me with permanent brain damage or worse… anyways…
I spoke with my wife and i think there’s no way im
taking that risk, however slim.
I guess we’re back to waiting.
1 Like
Oh no, I’m so sorry that you’ve had to make that decision, wise but incredibly frustrating for you! Sending you a hug & will pray that the wait won’t be as long as you think
1 Like
Thinking of you…
1 Like
I added your surgery date to my calendar, @AS2005 so I can pray for you especially on that day. 
1 Like
Good luck AS2005 ! Hoping you get all the relief you need Keep us updated !
2 Likes
Thank you all for your prayers. Cannot type much. Surgery over - internal approach, sounds like only 1cm removed due to int & ext carotids. Back home after three nights in hospital. Lots of pain and cannot speak much. Trouble swallowing but improving. Will take time to see what’s what. 
I’m really glad you’re out of surgery & home recovering, @AS2005. Your throat will be very sore for awhile. I’m sorry so little was removed but keeping the ECA/ICA safe is quite important. I hope the amount that was removed is enough to give you relief of symptoms. You’re right, it takes time to know what the results will be.
Sucking on ice chips & popsicles should help your throat feel a bit better. Also please remember to sleep w/ your head elevated for the first couple of weeks to help reduce throat swelling. A course of post op Prednisone can also help a lot to reduce swelling early on.
I look forward to hearing how your healing progresses once you feel well enough to share your thoughts with us. My prayers for you will continue as you heal.
1 Like
Take care of yourself and keep up with pain meds, sending you hugs & prayers for a good outcome 
1 Like
Could you please tell how much did you pay in Philadelphia? I am from Canada.
Please, share where did you have your surgery in Toronto which clinic? Thank you so much.