I am MUP, originally classified N1b M0, awaiting left posterior neck dissection. In preparation for surgery, we conducted a PET-CT scan (clear) and a brain MRI (see below). Surgery is scheduled for December 7.
When my surgeon left a message saying he needed to discuss my MRI with me, I immediately started thinking, "brain mets, oh my G-d." When we spoke, though, he said that the MRI had revealed an aneurysm at my M1 terminus.
I am MUP, originally classified N1b M0, awaiting left posterior neck dissection. In preparation for surgery, we conducted a PET-CT scan (clear) and a brain MRI (see below). Surgery is scheduled for December 7.
When my surgeon left a message saying he needed to discuss my MRI with me, I immediately started thinking, "brain mets, oh my G-d." When we spoke, though, he said that the MRI had revealed an aneurysm at my M1 terminus.
I have been having a funny feeling for month — less balance, losing words, etc. — but never thought of an aneurysm. However, symptoms have been getting worse…it could have blown at any time. And the impact of a ruptured aneurysm really stink — 10-15% death on the way to the hospital, up to 50% at 30 days. Most survivors lose a bunch of brain function.
So now we will (hopefully) patch the aneurysm while doing the neck dissection. I still don't know that my status will not get worse during surgery (the same MRI a second possible positive lymph node in another part of the left posterior triangle.) But whatever comes, I will probably live longer and better because we found the aneurysm now.
You never know when life gives you blessings, and some come in the most bizarre ways…
Happy Thanksgiving, all.
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