What to expect and chances of getting in?

@sbtheplumber1 I am doing well. Even though I was turned down by 5 spine surgeons prior to coming to Mayo, it was the right thing because those surgeons missed the diagnosis. They didn't have confidence in knowing what was causing the symptoms, so they should not operate if they don't completely understand the issues.

From what I understand, your spine surgery was a year ago. You are having L3 nerve issues, but the operated levels were L4 to S1, correct? It is possible that further surgery could make you worse off than you are now, and only a specialist can make that call. Prior to my spine surgery, my physical therapist was buying me time by doing myofascial release and using a Dolphin Neurostimulator on the nerve roots in my neck to disrupt pain signals. That prevented pain for about a week. All surgery creates scar tissue, and myofascial release may be something to try to see if it helps loosen the tight tissue. I have done a lot of work on my scar tissue both from my cervical spine surgery and surgery for a fractured ankle. It has helped a lot. Time helps too, and perhaps a year isn't long enough. Another surgery will add more scar tissue. I am 4 years out from the ankle fracture and have just recently improved a lot, and I'm now walking without pain.

If you do get an appointment at Mayo, I would recommend looking at Candlewood Suites for accommodations. They do have kitchens and recliners in the room and you can add pillows as needed to make it comfortable. I would recommend requesting a handicap accessible room that has a roll-in shower. Those are usually on the first floor, and I stayed in rooms like that with my ankle fracture when I could not weight bear at all. You would need someone to accompany you to drive. In Rochester, there is a hotel shuttle to Mayo (and most Rochester hotels have them). My drive between my home and Mayo was 5 and a half hours, and I did fine right after my surgeries coming home in the car. I was uncomfortable because of the surgery, and the drive didn't make it any worse. If you do get to go to Mayo, you'll find a way to figure out the travel part of it.

Here is our discussion where you can learn about Myofascial Release which is a type of physical therapy.

Neuropathy - "Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR) for treating compression and pain"
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/myofascial-release-therapy-mfr-for-treating-compression-and-pain/

They won’t take me in :((

I'm sorry to hear that. That is hard news to get. Please know that you can continue to connect with other members in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group here: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/heart-rhythm-conditions/

I actually did get in! It was internal medicine that denied me but I’m getting into cardiology.

That's great news. I'm not surprised. General internal medicine is a very very busy department. Given that you're primary concern is heart-related, you've landed where you need to be based on the review of your medical records by Mayo Clinic experts.

Once you have your initial appointment, testing and assessment, additional appointments in other departments (including internal medicine if necessary) will be arranged. Your cardiologist will be your main provider and will quarterback any additional needs.

Here are a few discussions that may help as you prepare for your appointment:
- Your Tips on How to Get Off to the Best Start with a New Specialist
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/your-tips-on-how-to-get-off-to-the-best-start-with-a-new-specialist/
- First Visit to Mayo Clinic: How do appointments work? What to expect?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/new-internal-med-patient/
- Mayo Clinic Patient Portal: How do I find it? Do you use it?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-portal/
Have you downloaded the Mayo Clinic patient portal?

Wishing you a successful outcome! The cardiology department at Mayo is the best in the world for many conditions and shares top rating with the Cleveland Clinic for a few others. You are in the best hands.

I requested an appointment through the site about 2 weeks ago. All of my imaging and extensive records had been sent and were being reviewed. I called twice for an update but they stated I was still in “triage” and it could take however long they needed. I started dismissing my pain and thinking well maybe it is all in my head blah blah blah. NOPE. Yesterday they called and I have an appointment a week from tomorrow (this is for the GI department for my pancreatic issues in Phoenix). I am elated and am just praying once I get there, we are going to do imaging and compare my results. I really. Really reallllllyyyyyy am hoping for a surgery for my pancreas.

Best of luck to you 💜

@leilani898

Welcome to Mayo Connect.
Thank you for sharing your experience in requesting an appointment.
I am glad you received an appointment and hope you get answers and the help you need.

Please keep us informed here or in Digestive Group what the providers recommend for your chronic pancreatitis.

Do you live in Phoenix area or have to travel for your appointment?

@leilani898 I am a longtime patient at both Phx and Scottsdale locations. My care is not GI, but I assume that they will follow the same protocol as the other departments. Typically on your first visit, you will be seen by 2 docs for a duration of about an hour. The first will be a either a NP or PA who will ask you a series of questions and examine you followed by the assigned MD. These medical staff really do care about your further treatment. If you ever need immediate emergemcy care, follow up at the Phx ER.

Regarding parking, Scottsdale is no problem, but Phoenix tends to fill up quickly as there are no parking structures located by the 4 buildings. You may get lucky and find good parking but plan to arrive slightly early for a spot. Typically, your appointment time is about 15 minutes after your assigned time. Lastly, make use of the patient portal. It is the best portal, well ahead of any others.

My experience self referring was pretty good. They told me a time frame that it would take for them to review my records and it took about exactly that. I got an appointment end of October beginning of November for February.