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Acoustic Neuroma: Auditory symptoms are overwhelming
Brain Tumor | Last Active: Mar 24 2:47pm | Replies (27)Comment receiving replies
I have an acoustic neuroma. I am about to have a gamma knife stereotactic procedure. This involves being screwed into a head frame, wearing a mask, and maybe a helmet. The problem is I have severe claustrophobia of the head. Because of this, I do not tolerate having my head restrained (CPAP machine, MRI’s of the head). I have developed s strategy for getting through the MRI, though these are still difficult, but that only lasts about 30 minutes The gamma knife procedure lasts an hour or more.. I am very familiar with a number of relaxation and grounding techniques. They are minimally effective.
Unfortunately, my neurologist does not seem to be taking this very seriously. He thinks 2-4 mg. of Ativan should do the trick. It will not. Anyone have suggestions?
Replies to "I have an acoustic neuroma. I am about to have a gamma knife stereotactic procedure. This..."
My situation is very much like yours. I am going to request a personal consult with the anesthesiologist. Like you, I believe my neurosurgeon minimized my issue. There is no way a couple of Ativan will alleviate my anxiety. If the anesthesiologist doesn’t come up with something stronger, I will be going somewhere else for treatment.
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I had the same treatment. The Ativan worked for me the first time but I had family with me for support. I’m having trouble getting follow up MRI though. Ativan may help in the tube but it sure doesn’t help in the days before getting there. I think if you insist you can be sedated but it requires an anesthesiologist and they won’t want to do that. I hope you find help and will be interested in what it is.