[TN-GK What Now?]

I guess you know from my title, if I am on this site, I have Trigeminal Neuralgia, had Gamma Knife surgery and now have more problems! About ten years ago, I had three levels fused in my neck. Everything was okay until I had a non-collision car accident which damaged my neck above and below the surgery causing neck, face and arm pain. My neurosurgeon sent me to a TN specialist who is “world renowned” in Gamma Knife surgery.

Well, after the procedure and the halo had been removed, a nurse and technician came in with a clear dome they placed on my head and the nurse told the tech, the measurement had been wrong. I put my hand to the side of my head and felt a gap between the rod and my face. I asked what the problem was and they said everything was okay. I was alert but morphine kept me from taking names and asking for more information.

Anyway, when I went home, I discovered only one screw had actually made contact on my face and the back screws grazed my head. Within a few days, my neck started to hurt and I lost the use of my arms. I called both Neurosurgeons and was told to give it some time. I assumed the weight of the halo caused the damage to my neck because it was not properly attached. I do not want to take legal action, I just want answers! After a year, I still have one hole in my face, limited use of my arms and I am on disability.

A few weeks ago, I went back to see the Gamma Knife doctor. For the first time, he said the clear plastic dome was not to measure for the halo, rather a gauge for the amount of radiation to use for the surgery. Then he said, “If you have lost confidence in me, you need to find another doctor”. Now, I am really scared! I understand the effects of excess radiation can take a long time to show up. Does anybody know what type of doctor could look at the CT and x-rays taken since the procedure? Or, does anybody have any words of wisdom? Thank you.