Sometime before 1999, I started to experience an unusal loud ringing in my left ear that would last for a week or so and then go away. A year or more of visits with my family doctor with no concrete diagnoses, he finally decided to send me to an ENT (ear nose & throat) doctor. A simple MRI, diagnosed my problem, Acoustic Neuroma! The doctor said "We don't do those here in Indiana, you will have to go to Chicago".
He referred me to Dr. Wiet of The Chicago Otology Group. Dr. Wiet explained all of my options and answered all of my questions. Because of the size of my tumor (3mm x 4mm), I decided to go on the "wait and watch" program. Every year I went for a MRI, with minimal, if any growth. But late 2004, my MRI revealed my tumor was 5mm x 8mm. Dr. Wiet suggested that within the next year, I should make some sort of decision, since the tumor was growing. Decided it was time to get serious and do my homework.
Searching the Internet for information was a big start along with Dr. Wiets referral list. This was a wealth of information calling almost everyone on his list while asking every question possible. Through phone conversations, I was invited to The ANA Western Chapter group (Chicago area) meeting in March 2005. It was one of the best experiences of my life. There was a room full of people with the same problem I had. Some people were on the same "wait and watch", and others post surgery. We all shared our stories, learning about different procedures, what to expect and different surgeons. It was through this meeting that I learned about the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles.
It was now April and I sent my MRI's to Dr. Brackmann from HEC for his opinion. He called me and gave me the same opinion as Dr. Wiet, it was time to do something soon. Having all of my hearing in that ear, it was a very difficult decision to make. Praying about it a lot, asking God to lead me in the right direction, knowing I had one chance to preserve my hearing and chose the right doctor. After much thought and prayer, in June I decided to go to House Ear Clinic.
Surgery was scheduled for July 26, 2005. On monday, July 25th, I had all of my pre-surgery tests. Met with Dr. Brackmann, Dr. Hitselberger, Dr. Stefan and Dr. Joni Doherty. They explained I would have the Middle Fossa approach because by tumor was small.
On Tuesday the 26th surgery started about 11 am and was over by 3 pm. Everything went well, facial nerve intact and hearing was preserved. I was in ICU until Wed afternoon then to a regular room that evening and released Friday afternoon. Saturday I went out shopping at the Grove Mall and world famous Farmers Market. Needed help walking but felt good enough to be up and about.
Having my sister and son with me was the greatest gift. A support system is a must! We stayed at Seton Hall, a very nice place, which is connected to the hospital. I saw the Dr's again on Thursday, August 4th and had my stitches removed. Had all of my meds squared away and got the OK to fly home on Friday, August 5th. My entire experience at House Ear Clinic has been awesome! Everyone made me feel at home, from the admitting clerk, the nurses and especially the doctors.
Had some minor issues with facial paralysis, balance, fullness in my surgery ear and dry eye when I first came home. I am now 7 weeks post surgery. I have no facial paralysis. The fullness in my ear has diminished. My dry eye is almost nonexistent. The only problem with balance I have is if I turn real fast. It kind of throws me off balance a little.
Everyone is different and each AN experience is unique for each person, no two are the same. My advice to anyone contemplating surgery is to do your homework (research), gathering as much information as you can. Talk to as many people as you can that have had the surgery. Knowing exactly what to expect helps with your decisions and fears. Find a doctor or doctors that you are comfortable with and last but not least, pray about it!
I will be more than happy to share any other information or questions that you might have.
Sincerely, Ann
