Yup, very important to have the right diagnosis before you consider surgery. A diagnosis of migraines, occipital neuralgia or scar neuroma needs to be established.
My problem was that each specialty diagnosed me differently! I got a diagnosis that fit the treatment they could offer. I had to ask for all my diagnostic tests until I was satisfied. Understandably, each was biased to the treatment within the scope of their practice. Each helped in a different way and I was thankful. OK, I am going to say it. You are not only a patient but a paying customer as well. I found them to be reluctant to refer. No wonder there is so much confusion. Dr Ducic seemed to be the only one that was really interested in a correct diagnosis and worked as part of a team with the other specialties.
There is no standard of care. Headache treatment is still in the early stages as illustrated by so many opinions, treatments and theories on this site alone.
I think by the time you consider surgery, you have tried so many treatments that don't quite live up to expectations. We become a discouraged bunch living with side effects, pain and conflicting theories. Sometimes analysis paralysis takes hold and you just don't know where to turn.
I found Dr Ducic to be professional, upfront, realistic and skillful. Everything I had concluded and physically felt made sense when he explained the anatomy of the nerves. After working in a large medical center for years, I know that the best resource to find a good surgeon are anesthesiologists and operating room nurses. They see all the doctors in action. They know how their technique compares to others and how they handle emergencies. Other doctors tend to refer to their friends or are required to refer to the same hospital system. It is one of the perks of being a OR RN. You get the inside scoop. I was way out of my comfort zone going across the country to a hospital where I didn't have connections. I did sense a level of respect for Dr Ducic and the staff spoke highly of him without my asking. In the end, I had to trust my instincts. Also, large medical centers have quality assurance committees. The hospital I worked at would never allow a doctor to continue with continued bad outcomes. I saw many surgeons loose their privileges, only to relocate to smaller hospitals or required to go back to school. I figured Dr Ducic has been doing this long enough to pass the grade. He sent me the operating room report in the mail without me requesting it. Again, very upfront.
Another consideration was the proposed changes in the US Healthcare System. I have great insurance and wondered if I would have the option of being treated across the country at a later date. Insurance companies have to be financially hurting with the stock and bond markets still slow. Cutbacks are a logical solution. Timing became a consideration.
I still am feeling fine. No headaches or pain behind the eye. A little tender around the incision. Creepy crawly sensations now and then. Taking an occasional Tylenol. These nerves seem to take on a life of their own, so I am still cautiously optimistic and enjoying each day without a headache. Do you remember my first posts describing my headaches? I was an electrical mess! I am a different person. If the unthinkable happened and my headaches resurfaced, there are a lot of drugs I haven't tried. There is always a plan B.
I guess I am trying to say that you should to be comfortable with the treatment you choose. Thankfully, there is more than one right answer!
Best Wishes,
Janet
