Sorry, I’m learning how to navigate the forums as a member. Naturally, as many with Menier’s, I document symptoms . I have kept a brief log of my recovery. I’m willing to post it, but want to make sure I post it correctly. Do I just start a new post?
Yes, Ali. Choose a topic name and start a new thread. I'm interested in hearing about your labyrinthectomy.
Hi Paul101, I lost most of my hearing in the VNS ear during endolymphatic surgery a year prior to the VNS, so my hearing loss was already rated as profound. I had no further hearing loss after the VNS. There is only enough hearing left to help me identify the source of a sound or voice. A VNS is supposed to preserve any hearing you have in the operated ear. Welcome to the forums. I'm sorry you have to be here. Cheryl
hi Paul Labrynthectomy involves cutting out / destroying the inner ear - it stops all vertigo coming from that ear at the cost of any hearing in that ear. Surgeons tend not to want to do it if you have serviceable hearing. VNS (vestibular nerve section) is considered brain surgery however the brain itself is not operated on; the nerve running from ear to brain is cut in a specific way to sever the signal between ear and brain. If it works it stops all vertigo however the ear continues to function; fullness, hearing etc all continue there is a third option called triple semicircular canal plugging which is more complicated but the short version is this surgery is similar to Labrynthectomy however rather than destroying the inner ear the labrynth is ‘plugged’ to limit or prevent fluid flowing freely in the tubes. If you Google each surgery’s name there is plenty of detail on them beyond my descriptions.
Yes if you choose a laby you will lose your hearing. But you will gain freedom to live your life to the fullest. Single sided hearing is something I believe you can live with,
None of the above are recommended if you have Ménière’s in both ears in the Uk. In the USA where medicine is a bit more liberal things might be different.
RED how long ago was your laby? I know you’ve discussed your situation before but as someone looking down the barrel of an operation decision on Tuesday could you talk about your symptoms day to day before the operation both during accute attacks and between as well as after? I know you say ‘normal life’ post op - what was it like the moment you woke up, the days after, a month after etc the more detail you are willing to share the better. big appreciation for the amount you’ve already posted.
Is there any surgery that will stop the fullness and the pressure in the ears...my plan is to be able get a cochlear implant as my two ears are affected.