Glenda -
the rapid growth of my AN was totally unexpected and no one knows why it happened; guess I'm just an oddball
Seriously, I think I'm more an exception to the rule, rather than the norm.
I don't know much about doctors working together to remove an AN other than my own case. I had a neurotologist (highly specialized ENT) and a neurosurgeon who worked together, which is what these two particular docs always do. Surgical removal of an AN is a very delicate, very time-consuming task (my surgery took 7 1/2 hours) and it's better to have 2 pairs of eyes and hands to do the work. From what I understand, it is very "close" work and eye strain can become an issue for the docs so they like to work as a team and relieve each other when necessary. I think they also tend to have their own "jobs" during the surgery. For instance, I know the neurosurgeon opened up my skull, but the neurotologist stitched me back up; they both took turns removing my AN. The location of the AN is also a consideration - in my case it was on the 7th and 8th cranial nerves and the docs had to monitor the nerves as well as carefully remove the AN itself. It can be a very tricky surgery.
For some patients watch and wait is a very good option and if it's one you are comfortable with, I can't think of any reason to rush into another form of treatment right now. Your AN is considered small and chances are good that it will grow slowly. Please know that whatever treatment decision you make, the members of this forum will support you.
I never sought a second opinion because I was completely comfortable with the first doctor I saw - my neurotologist. I talked to him in person and by phone numerous times before making my decision, but I never felt I needed to see another doctor because I had confidence in him, his experience level, and his abilities - plus he offered me the option of surgery or radiation. We just clicked and I knew that he was the man to do the job. In fact, I scheduled my surgery without even talking to the neurosurgeon. I figured if he was the only neurosurgeon the neurotologist would work with (and he certainly had other available options) than he was good enough for me. When I did meet the neurosurgeon about a week prior to surgery, I was very impressed with him and his "can do" attitude.
IMO, I had no reason to look elsewhere or consult with another doctor. However, in reading your last post, I get the sense that you haven't found a confidence level in the doctor you spoke with. So I think it makes perfect sense for you to seek a second opinion; it definitely can't hurt. If you don't feel you can make an informed decision at this point, keep doing your research.
Jan
BTW - congrats! You are certainly going to be a young grandma! Only 49! I'm 46 1/2 and my children are just going to be 12; guess I'll be an old grandma
