Originally Posted by tvoss123

Hi there,

I have had GN for 17 years.I have been on 1200mg of Carbatrol for nine years and have developed more side effects and pain in spite of it. Now I am faced with the surgery. My question is about the results of the surgery. At Mayo Clinic, they plan to decompress and sever the nerve. I am concerned about what I will lose besides the pain. Has anyone had this surgery with the nerve being severed? As far as I have learned in reading, the nerve goes to the tympanum, controls the bitter taste buds at the back of the tongue, and goes to the pharynx that aids in swallowing. The taste buds will die, and I don't know what else will happen. Will I no longer be able to swallow? I have the surgery scheduled for next month, but need more answers.
Thank you,
Tammy