Community Forum Archive

The Epilepsy Community Forums are closed, and the information is archived. The content in this section may not be current or apply to all situations. In addition, forum questions and responses include information and content that has been generated by epilepsy community members. This content is not moderated. The information on these pages should not be substituted for medical advice from a healthcare provider. Experiences with epilepsy can vary greatly on an individual basis. Please contact your doctor or medical team if you have any questions about your situation. For more information, learn about epilepsy or visit our resources section.

Left Temporal Lobe Surgery next week

Mon, 04/29/2013 - 17:23
Hello. I cant find any recent ongoing discussions of Left Temporal lobe surgery. My husband will be having his surgery next week, after 17 years of seizures and 8 years of trying to make a decision on surgery. My anxiety is beyond belief. I am trying to hold it together for him and our 4 children. I find most success stories are of RIGHT temporal lobectomies. Has anyone recently recovered from Left TL surgery that might have some words of wisdom or advice on getting through this procedure? Thank you ajard

Comments

Re: Left Temporal Lobe Surgery next week

Submitted by pick61 on Tue, 2013-04-30 - 20:39

My LTL was almost six years ago.  Seems like a lifetime ago on one hand, and yet a very short time ago on the other.  I consider it to be a resounding success even though I still take medication and have had a handful of seizures since.  It's a dramatic difference from how things were before and I am eternally grateful to the awesome neurosurgeon I had.

Prior to surgery I had managed to make contact with two individuals who had the same surgery by the same surgeon.  One individual in particular shared his story with me, gave me some good advice for my hospital stay and the early days at home.  He was kind enough to check up on me after the fact, encourage me when I needed it and continue to answer the questions that arose.  I realize your husband doesn't have time to connect with someone before the fact, but perhaps he could consider it when he goes for his post-op checkup.  The hospital may have people who are willing to share their experiences with people currently undergoing/recovering from surgery.

I hope all goes well for your husband.  

My LTL was almost six years ago.  Seems like a lifetime ago on one hand, and yet a very short time ago on the other.  I consider it to be a resounding success even though I still take medication and have had a handful of seizures since.  It's a dramatic difference from how things were before and I am eternally grateful to the awesome neurosurgeon I had.

Prior to surgery I had managed to make contact with two individuals who had the same surgery by the same surgeon.  One individual in particular shared his story with me, gave me some good advice for my hospital stay and the early days at home.  He was kind enough to check up on me after the fact, encourage me when I needed it and continue to answer the questions that arose.  I realize your husband doesn't have time to connect with someone before the fact, but perhaps he could consider it when he goes for his post-op checkup.  The hospital may have people who are willing to share their experiences with people currently undergoing/recovering from surgery.

I hope all goes well for your husband.  

Re: Left Temporal Lobe Surgery next week

Submitted by pick61 on Tue, 2013-04-30 - 20:52

It probably would be good for you to know that it's not uncommon for someone to have short term memory issues after a left temporal lobectomy.  It is temporary, but can be disturbing when you're going through it.

Something that was recommended to me by my pharmacist was arnica gel.  It's a homeopathic ointment and not very expensive.  It is useful for helping get rid of bruises more quickly.  I didn't have it on hand immediately, but bought it when she recommended it to me.  It was also useful for somewhat numbing the incision site when I was trying to sleep.

 Again, good luck!

It probably would be good for you to know that it's not uncommon for someone to have short term memory issues after a left temporal lobectomy.  It is temporary, but can be disturbing when you're going through it.

Something that was recommended to me by my pharmacist was arnica gel.  It's a homeopathic ointment and not very expensive.  It is useful for helping get rid of bruises more quickly.  I didn't have it on hand immediately, but bought it when she recommended it to me.  It was also useful for somewhat numbing the incision site when I was trying to sleep.

 Again, good luck!

Re: Left Temporal Lobe Surgery next week

Submitted by ajard on Tue, 2013-04-30 - 21:40
Hi pick61 What is your experience as far as how long this temporary short term memory issue will last? I have heard about this before.

Sign Up for Emails

Stay up to date with the latest epilepsy news, stories from the community, and more.