radiation for residual tumor after surgery

[Barzini]

First post for this newbie, whose been lurking for hours. Amazingly helpful forum!

Anybody have radiation (ck or gk) after microsurgery because of residual tumor left behind by choice to save facial nerve? Would be grateful if you shared your story.

--Barzini (It was only after surgery that I realized it was Barzini causing all the trouble all along...)

[Omaschwannoma]

Wanted to respond to your post as I'm up early this a.m.  I know Jim Scott has had surgery to debulk his large tumor and radiosurgery to qwell the leftovers and as of today is doing well.  Do a "search" for him and I know you will be hearing from him shortly too.  There are others on the forum who have had similar treatment and will be popping in shortely with a response. 

[Jim Scott]

Barzini:

Hi and welcome.  Glad the site and forums have been useful to you.

As Arushi indicated, I had a 4.5 cm AN and the approach was to debulk (cut down) the tumor and avoid damaging the facial nerve.  That was successful and I came through the 9-hour surgery basically intact with no real complications.  So far, so good.  Then, after a 90-day 'healing period', I underwent carefully plotted FSR treatments.  Basically low-dose radiation (26 20-minute sessions) aimed directly at the remaining tumor.  No problems there, either. Now , two year post-op, my symptoms are gone and I'm fine.  I have my 2-year MRI on Friday and expect continued good news (tumor shrinkage/necrosis).  We'll see. 

I had a very good experience with this 2-stage treatment and on that basis, I recommend it - but the decision must be made between you and your doctor.  I hope this info helps. 

Jim

[Barzini]

Hi friends,
Can't thank you enough for the valuable info. The cyberknife support site is fine--got quick answers to my questions from the docs! I see the way: have appt with radiation therapist recommended here in 3 wks.
Hope you've gotten good news, Jim!
Barzini