Post op MRI

[ewchisek]

Did everyone wait about six months for the post op MRI? I'm wondering if I can talk my neurosurgeon into getting it sooner?

[Jim Scott]

Elizabeth ~

Six months is the usual time-frame for a post-op MRI. 

However, my neurosurgeon ordered one immediately following my debulking surgery to ascertain exactly how much of the tumor remained and how it was situated.  I underwent another MRI three months later to aid the doctors (oncologist, neurosurgeon) who 'mapped' my FSR treatments.

MRI scans are expensive (thousands) and, assuming your medical insurance is covering the cost, the doctor ordering the scan has to medically justify it before the insurer will pay.  This usually precludes having MRI scans closer than six months post-op.  Of course, every situation is different and if you can convince your doctor an MRI is needed sooner than six months, you may be able to get it approved by your insurer.

Jim