Good TC description

I wanted to share the following from a gentleman (who had surgery a while back). He is on a TC message board that I belong to. This is a very good description of Tarlov Cysts & surgery. He had a good outcome. I am still waiting on Dr. F. to call, I believe he is back in the office this week. I will post as soon as I hear from him.

"It is good to hear from you and regarding the cysts you referred to - they were emptied of spinal fluid and the small orifice that the spinal fluid was leaking through into each cyst from my spine were plugged with thin layers of fat and tissue glue. Layer upon layer which formed a lamination that is very strong and stops the spinal fluid from filling the sheath that protects the nerve. Each nerve has a protective sheath that sticks tightly to the nerve except when for some reason it loosens on the nerve near the spine the spinal fluid then flows under the sheath around the nerve and forms a fluid filled balloon or sack outside the spine around the nerve. When enough fluid escapes the spine and the sheath is bulged larger and larger they are called Tarlov Cysts. The pressure from the spinal fluid trapped inside the nerve sheath becomes so great that it begins to crush the nerve which as we know from experience causes increasing pain and then loss of bodily functions that are controlled by that particular nerve.The goal of the surgeons is to drain the fluid sacks called Tarlov Cysts and then plug the leaking entrance of the spinal fluid which repeatedly accumulates as we pick up heavy objects or become very stressed. The nerve sheath itself has small very important nerves embedded in their thin membranes which the Neurosurgeons have to be extremely careful when they make their incision to drain the fluid and then insert the the thin layers of fat taken from the incision area near our skin. It is my view that those contemplating intervention must be very careful to choose a neurosurgeon with years of experience and a good success rate. It has been my observation and experience that we look for a surgeon that practices very close to our home for our convenience but that should not be the top priority in my view. However each of us has to do our own research as you are doing and weigh all the information and make our decision based on what you believe is proper for you since the choice you make and the result you obtain is what you will ultimately have to live with. I appreciate your patients and hope this has been helpful. May the Lord grant you grace, wisdom, good judgment, and resolution. Blessings Best RegardsSincerly.... ......... ......... ....Walt "