For those of you who don't believe in Miracles - what are the chances that I would meet with a doctor who knew Dr. I.M Tarlov (the doctor who discovered
tarlov cysts?) that was my first surprize! By the time I reached Cleveland, my
back was in excruciating pain (even with the meds) because of sitting so long
and this doctor was not intimidated at all that I had to stand throughout our
consultation. Quite contrary, he was very understanding. He looked at the
MRI that I brought and he confirmed that all the problems that I have had with
sitting, standing and in my lower back are attributed to the large tarlov cysts
that sit either side of my spine at the tailbone. He read my urgency in my
eyes of any type of assistance that he could give me but he was also very
wise. He told me exactly how things are. For one, not everyone with these
cysts are suitable for surgery because it can be quite dangerous. So before
anything, I must have more tests. The myleogram will show how deep these
cysts have gotten...sometimes they imbed in the spinal cord bone and that
can cause that area of bone to shatter. I looked up at my sweet husband, who I want more than anything to get better for. He deserves a wife that can do the things that must be done around here. He couldn't speak and I could almost see the huge lump in his throat as the corner of his eyes got wet. And
so than I asked the doctor...will these cysts keep me permantly disabled and
he said Yes. Now, I could not speak. Dr. Likavec took over and told us that
if I am a candidate for the surgery that there is only a 50/50 chance that it
will help me. He went on to say that I shouldn't be in a hurry for surgery because I would be in more pain for a while and that there is about a three month recuperation period. I applaud the doctor for his honesty...he didn't want me to get all excited when, he himself, has only seen half of his patients
make sufficient improvement. Both my spouse and I have decided to wait and
see what the results of my myleogram are before making any further decisions. My doctor recommended stronger medication for the meantime and to continue resting on and off throughout the day...when I need it. He
also put a good feeling in my heart when he said that I am in God's hands. I
like that about Dr. Likavec...that he knows who is truly the greatest doctor of
all. Yes, I would definitely recommend Dr. Matt Likavec most of all because he pulls no punches.
more