Posted by bruinmd on July 14, 2009 at 14:35:42:In Reply to: Re: To Tobeornottobe posted by tobeornottobe on July 07, 2009 at 16:50:50:
Jim,
I am sorry you are having so much trouble. Have you considered using a stimulant such as Adderal or Ritalin at least for the time being? It should give you more energy during the day so that you can function better. At least until you can figure out your next step. I had some really bad days after surgery. I know our circumstances are different but I think something like the Adderal could help get you through the difficult period.
As you have found- SMILE does not have a lot of literature. I am not sure an MRI is necessary prior to the procedure. I have not seen where that is done often. Some ENT's will use the ultrasound to locate the lingual artery during surgery. But most do not use it. I think I would feel more comfortable if someone used it. But it is not absolutely necessary if the surgeon stays withing a certain distance of the midline. The lingual artery and nerve usually run in a predictable location- I think about 1 cm or so off of the midline. And most do it under general anesthesia. I don't think I would have it as a local procedure.
Woodson does do the procedure. I would really get a number of patients who have had success with the procedure with a given doctor.I hope this helps.
Brian