Migraine

Hi everyone,

I thought I'd give y'all an update about the the trial stimulator.

To make a long story short, it seems to be working for me!

On Tuesday morning, I went to the operating room and my neurosurgeon implanted the trial stimulator. It's a test device--two small leads are in the back of my head and I have wires running down from those (externally) to a control device. I can turn the stimulator off and on, and I can adjust the setting on the device to control the amount of stimulation I receive.

The operation itself took just 10 or 15 minutes. They shaved about 1/2 of my head in the back and used a needle to implant the 2 leads. They used an ultrasound to find the most appropriate place for the leads.

I was completely awake during the procedure! They gave me a very, very small amount of medicine in my IV so I'd not be so nervous. But I felt just about normal throughout the procedure. Maybe a little sleepy.

In the OR, they immediately turned on the device and tried out different settings for me. (They can control the type of stimulation, intensity, etc.) We found the type that worked best for me--it spreads a vibrating/bubbling sensation up over the back of my head and forward to just above my ears. (Kinda like a TENS unit, but a lot more intense!!) It feels just terrific to have that part of my head without pain!!!

Since Tuesday, they've helped me over the phone to make some changes to my stimulation program (to set it for a slightly stronger intensity). Right now, the left side of my head feels really good. The right side has some patches that are not as numb. I'm thinking the lead on the right side may not be placed as well as the one on the left...

So, tomorrow I go back and the doc will remove the device!! It just doesn't seem fair, does it? I'll have a discussion with the doc and we'll decide if it makes sense to move forward with the stimulator. IMO, I will definitely get the permanent one!!!! I hope they agree with my opinion.

They'll put the permanent one in early next week (if they agree to move forward). This time, all of the stuff (leads, wires, battery/control device) will be implanted under my skin. This operation is supposed to be pretty nasty.

Once the permanent device is in place, 2 out of 3 patients have the device turned on. The other 1/3 receive the device but it is left in the off position. After 3 months, everyone has it turned on. Boy, do I hope I'm not one of the people who have the thing turned off!!!!

I'm feeling optimistic! The stimulator seems to be making a big difference in my head pain. DH and the kids say I just look so much better. I'm sure I look tired--the surgery sites are sore and I broke out in hives from the tape I'm apparently allergic to...But they say I just look like I'm feeling 100% better.

I'm praying that things continue to move forward so well. I sure hope this thing helps me with some long term relief...

That's all! I'll report more info as things move along...

Much love to all of you!

jenny

Oh Jenny I am so very very happy for you. You will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this next phase.

Cindy

Jenny,

I am doing a big ol' happy dance for you!



I'm so happy you've found some relief. Hopefully everthing falls into place and this can continue.

Jennny,
I'm so glad that things went well and that the stimulator seems to be working for you!

I'll be praying and hoping you are in the 2/3 who get the real thing!!!

Cyn

Jenny,

I'm so excited for you! I'm doing a Happy Dance with an extra wiggle for you!

I'll continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers!!

Jenny!!!!

This is amazing news!! I am so happy for you! Happy dances all around!!!! I too, hope you are the lucky on that get the stimulator with the on button!! Let us know how it going!

Dar

droolie is not a snazzy dancer, but will manage her zippiest little shuffle for you. And some celebratory doodads, like...

...

and ...

and ...

and ...

and especially...

!

Hip, hip, hooray!

I'm so glad things went well.

hey, glad things have gone well so far.

Hi jennyc,

Whatever makes the pain go away is wonderful news!! I hope it lasts forever!

Thank you, everyone, for cheering along with me! I'm gathering my courage and packing to leave for my final surgery! The trial device worked very well--I sure do hope this permanent one provides some long-term help for me!

I can't tell you how much your support means to me right now. I don't always tell Dh (and I certainly don't tell the kids) when I'm worried or stressed by this process. You guys are wonderful listeners and give terrific support. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart!

jenny

My thoughts and prayers are with you as you leave and have your final surgery.

Here's loads of for the road!

Good luck and take care!

Jenny,
Thinking of you today and sending you and support.

Liz

I wish you the best of luck with the surgery!

I'm glad you've found something that is helping. You are so brave!

Praying you keep feeling better.