Badyellowvette ~
I underwent AN debulking surgery followed by FSR in mid-2006. Thereafter, I had an MRI every six months for the next two years. Initially, I had some mild post-radiation swelling but by the end of 2008 necrosis had set in, the remaining tumor showed indications of shrinking a bit, I had absolutely no symptoms and was doing well so my neurosurgeon discharged me. He did say another MRI in five years would be something to consider but didn't seem to think it would be necessary. Although my neurosurgeon retired a few years ago, his office never contacted me regarding any further MRI scans.
However, that's one AN patient and one doctor. I've seen posts that give accounts of AN patients having MRI scans every year for five years, then every three or five years as well as other frequencies. That tells me there is no 'standard' but doctors make their own call based on the patient and his/her recovery as well as other factors. My procedure and recovery went splendidly so I can see why my doctor was sanguine regarding my undergoing MRI scans for years into the future. Of course I'm hyper-aware of any possible changes or return of AN symptoms. Should that occur, I'll contact the office where my former neurosurgeon practiced, see his replacement and ask for an MRI. Naturally, I hope I never need to do that.
Because MRI scans do not employ radiation I don't find them risky, just tedious. However, they are also very expensive and health insurance companies may not pay for too-frequent MRI scans unless a good medical reason can be offered by the doctor requesting the scan.
Jim
