TBI from aneurysm clipping in the Circle of Willis
I had the above surgery, which lasted 12-1/2 hours. Because of the length of surgery and the location of the aneurysm, doctors call it a TBI. Now I have balance and cognitive issues the began in 2022. These symptoms started about 8 months ago. Two months ago, I was rushed to the hospital for a possible stroke. They diagnosed me with a headache!!! I saw the following excerpts on the interpretation of one of my MRIs, “ Subtle, unchanged T2/FLAIR hyperintense foci in the supratentorial white matter and pons are small vessel ischemic changes.,” and “ Cystic area along the inferior margin of the right basal ganglia.” My neurologist won’t even discuss these with me!
In the past 3 months my symptoms seem to be getting worse, fairly quickly. I fall for no obvious reason, search for words or use the wrong ones, don’t always know what day or date it is. Short-term memory is worsening very quickly. Several times a week I’ll ask my husband what he wants for dinner. Then he answers that we ate such and such 20 minutes ago, sometimes I can remember and sometimes I can’t. I tried to get into Mayo in Rochester, and they declined to give me an appointment. Any other suggestions for specialists in the country? I’ve looked on the Internet for some, however, we all know that you can’t really trust the Internet all the time. I’m looking for a good, solid, truthful recommendation for a neurologist.
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Hi, @jclahn, and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. Sounds like you've been through not only a very long surgery but a lot of other challenges.
I'd like to tag a few members who are familiar with aneurysm clipping to provide some support and any input @stevgood @tainan @dg12 @houston13 @mkoch @cherylgeo @suzannedee.
jclahn - Radiology results are tough to read and understand, from my own experience. Has your neurologist explained his or her not wanting to discuss the MRI results with you?
Did the doctor at the hospital where you were diagnosed with headache explain the rationale for this diagnosis?
Our culture has moved beyond doctors being put on a pedestal and categorized as one of the mythological Greek gods. One's doctor is part of a team, a team that you are a member of. If your neurologist refuses to discuss your MRI results you need to find a doctor who will. I'm in California so I don't know if my location would be suitable to making any recommendations for you. I will offer that NYU is rated number 1 in the nation for neurology and UCSF in San Francisco is rated number 2. Do you know why Mayo refused to schedule you for an appointment?