keepemsnowed

I just loved Babara McClean! Great speaker no matter what the topic. I went to her critical thinking session and her volunteering session. I am planning on going next year for sure!

I am an adult ICU nurse with a twelve year old dtr recently diagnosed (after c/o headaches) with an arachnoid cyst in the posterior fossa. First neurosurgeon says she needs a crani, no vp shunt. I would really appreciate any insight from my peds peers. A few questions: * Is a minimally invasive endoscopic approach possible in this area? It is 3x3x2.5 cm. * Anyone familiar with neurosurgeons at Shands Gainesville (going to him for second opinion on Friday)? * What is the recovery course like? * 1st doc blaming HA on migraines, not the cyst. Any thoughts? * How much hair will they shave? With much respect and thanks!

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