I would highly reccomend making a list of questions to take with you.

Ask how many many other IH patients he treats?

How will he handle shunt failures/malfunctions?

What type of shunt does he reccomend and why?

I'm sure some others can chime in. . .Also, I would consider a pediatric neurologist if he'll take you. . .our ventricles are like a child's. . .small and hard to work with.

Hope this helps a little.

Thank you this was very helpful

I agree with the above. He will likely work with one type of shunt over another but if you have a preference you can bring that up as well.

Hope

You are going to meet with more than one neuro surgeon, right? I sure would if I was having neuro surgery. I haven't had to consider surgery yet, thank goodness. If I was going to one I'd agree with the above questions plus add a few more.

What parts of your care does he handle?

How will he work together with your neurologist in planning care, communicating, handling problems and issues?

What are his statistics around initial surgery complications? (yes, most hospitals do keep this data)

For an urgent matter, what is the wait time for an appointment? What does he consider an urgent matter?

How many of this procedure does he do a year? (the more the better)

Here's a few questions that I wrote down that someone had given to me, I have more and just message me and let me know if you want me to look for them for you. I get my first shunt thursday and totally know how you're feeling. Know that if you don't feel comfortable with your first surgeon it is okay to ask your optho for another consult. I came all the way to OSU from NC because I didnt feel comfortable there and had heard so many good things about my doc.

Questions for the Neuro. Surgeon:

1. What is the estimated life span for either a VP or LP shunt?
2. How do you determine what shunt procedure is best for me?
3. What are the distinct differences between VP and LP shunt?
4. Would I qualify for a VP shunt due certain medical specifications?
5. Will I be receiving a either programmable (adjustable) shunt? If not an adjustable shunt why?
6. What will happen to a programmable shunt if I need to travel for vacations etc?
7. Are they easily affected by airport scanners?
8. What are the chances for a shunt malfunction?
9. How long will my case be followed after I receive the surgery? How will I physically know if the shunt is malfunctioning?
10. Can the VP or LP shunt be removed at anytime for any reason after it has been placed into the body?
11. After placement what is the estimated recovery time?
12. How long will I have to be in the hospital?
13. Will it relieve my headaches?
14. How quickly will my papillodema go away?
15. How long after can I resume normal activity? Will I be able to drive?
16. How many shunt procedures have you performed?
17. What are the tests performed in the hospital to determine if the shunt is malfunctioning?
18. What are the chances of over draining with either shunt?
19. What are the risks involved with having shunt installed.
20. Will I be able to apply for temporary disability during my recovery phase of the operation?
21. How long is the surgery to install the shunt?

first good luck on Thursday Rachel

thanks for all those questions and if you have time
could you please send me the rest

What day is your appointment? Ill have to type them up

Next Thursday