Arachnoid cyst: pediatric neurosurgery surgeon info pls

[keepemsnowed]

Fellow nurses,

My twelve year old daughter has just been diagnosed with an arachnoid cyst. I am an adult critical care nurse and am looking for advice form you peds folks!

Her cyst is 3.5 x 3 x 2.5cm and showing mass effect. It is centrally located near the occipital lobe. Well defined. Smack in the middle of her sweet little head.

My questions are:

*Is anyone out there familiar with the neurosurgeons at Shands Gainesville? Any opinions appreciated

*Any insight on whether she will be eligible for the minimially invasive approach or is craniotomy anticipated with this location?

*Possible complications

*Recovery course timeline

*Am I correct to anticipate a night or two in the PICU?

*Is fenestration usually done as a first option, then a shunt if the cyst reforms?

*We found the cyst while being worked up for migraines. The first neuro doc told us she has migraines unrelated to the cyst. Do these kids frequently have HA?

Thank you so much for your advice, opinions, and your thoughts and prayers!

With utmost respect for my pediatric peers,

Keep

[NotReady4PrimeTime, RN]

Please keep in mind that the giving of medical advice is far beyond the scope of this site and as such is prohibited by our Terms of Service. The best source of the information you're seeking is from your surgeon.

I'm very sorry your family is experiencing this and will pray for a speedy and uncomplicated recovery for your daughter. I know my colleagues in the PICU will provide her with the best possible care for the day or two she's with them. (Yes she likely will go to PICU for at least one night. Maybe more... no crystal ball here.)