Monday, February 28, 2005
Of course the Oscars put me to sleep last night, but I managed to catch most of the biggies before my head hit the old tempurpedic pillow.
Martin Scorcese has been shut out again, and winning couldn't happen to a more genuine woman than Hillary Swank . Although Regis Philbun called Jamie Foxx Jamie "Farr" on national television today, we know the difference. We also know that Samuel Jackson isn't Morgan Freeman.
Actor: Jamie Foxx
Actress: Hilary Swank
Supporting Actress: Cate Blanchett
Supporting Actor: Morgan Freeman
Picture: Million Dollar Baby
Director: Clint Eastwood
Adapted Screenplay: Sideways
Original Screenplay: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
I see Dr. Pirouzmand for my six-week follow up tomorrow and am looking at the possibility of the cros hearing aid for work.
Martin Scorcese has been shut out again, and winning couldn't happen to a more genuine woman than Hillary Swank . Although Regis Philbun called Jamie Foxx Jamie "Farr" on national television today, we know the difference. We also know that Samuel Jackson isn't Morgan Freeman.
Actor: Jamie Foxx
Actress: Hilary Swank
Supporting Actress: Cate Blanchett
Supporting Actor: Morgan Freeman
Picture: Million Dollar Baby
Director: Clint Eastwood
Adapted Screenplay: Sideways
Original Screenplay: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
I see Dr. Pirouzmand for my six-week follow up tomorrow and am looking at the possibility of the cros hearing aid for work.
Sunday, February 27, 2005
The world is rife with blog. Some of the younger generations sure have the technicalities together; it really makes me want to go to geek school. Do they learn from their chums, or are they born with this skill? Is it part of their DNA? If your parents watched Starsky and Hutch or The “A” Team growing up, HTML skills are guaranteed, you're part of the right gene pool baby.
The Taylor Creek ‘Seven-Forty-Fivers’ brought coffee yesterday, with a bit of the recipe on the side. I took my coffee straight up as this is not really my thing, and a nine-thirty nap would surely result in some raised eyebrows and a good asskicking upon my return home. Ataxic gait is common after acoustic neuroma excision, really baby! Speaking of the crew, I wonder where they were this morning?
It’s so beautiful this time of year down there and a great community; I promise to get some tree-hugger photos up soon.
The Taylor Creek ‘Seven-Forty-Fivers’ brought coffee yesterday, with a bit of the recipe on the side. I took my coffee straight up as this is not really my thing, and a nine-thirty nap would surely result in some raised eyebrows and a good asskicking upon my return home. Ataxic gait is common after acoustic neuroma excision, really baby! Speaking of the crew, I wonder where they were this morning?
It’s so beautiful this time of year down there and a great community; I promise to get some tree-hugger photos up soon.
Saturday, February 26, 2005
Friday, February 25, 2005
Above the clouds the sky is always blue.
Workouts and lunch, dog walking and housecleaning, sweeping and dishes and cooking and recovery, I would never have a problem filling the days if I never had to work another day in my life, but I almost feel like I’m missing the action downtown. I was talking to Phil my neighbour about this yesterday. Phil is on permanent vacation (he’s retired), and we were talking about our perception that time goes faster as we get older, hurtling us with ever increasing velocity toward the inevitable. Phil has had prostate cancer and survived triple-bypass surgery, and understands that life is all too brief. Agreed.
Today is Friday, and many at work of all stripes today are ‘happy’ while on Monday they’ll be ‘sad’. That in itself is a drag, I could never understand the days of the week affecting well being to that degree. After all, Monday comes once a week, why be habitually miserable 1/7th of the time?
Spring is about to be born and rise up in its green and verdant way. For me, this has been one speedy winter - having more to bitch about than the weather has its advantages and teaches life’s valuable lessons.
Where I'd like to be before much longer.Thursday, February 24, 2005
Helmet Shopping
I looked at bicycle helmets today at my local CyclePath. It was great to hear that beyond about 50 bucks, you're paying for ventilation and a lighter weight. The BMX helmets look like they provide a lot of protection and sure look rad, but if I can't wear it with a straight face, how am I going to pull it off on the real?
(Maybe an SNFU sticker or two...)
Now Playing:
'Unsung'
Helmet
(Maybe an SNFU sticker or two...)
Now Playing:
'Unsung'
Helmet
Join the debate.
It's all about the [Can Con] Eighties today. Say yeah.
Jane Siberry's 'The Walking' gets my vote as the earliest digital record with soul.
It's all about the [Can Con] Eighties today. Say yeah.
Jane Siberry's 'The Walking' gets my vote as the earliest digital record with soul.
Thursday is the Best Day for Grapes At No Frills
It’s been six-weeks [plus a day] since surgery and here is what I see: My balance is getting better every day, although when I get tired I walk into the occasional doorway and sometimes lose my place in the dark. Driving is as easy (and as dangerous and as bad for the environment) as it ever was. Sometimes it takes longer to form (written) sentences of varying length, though I understand any cognitive setbacks are temporary.
The AN meeting was small but informative, and as always, a load shared is a load lessened, although I feel (almost) as strong as Brett 'The Hitman' Hart in his prime. Talk about a comeback. That guy is coming back from a stroke – a tough row to hoe to be sure.
My level of fitness is at about 70%. Yesterday I took a 45 Min. Spinning class followed by an hour with Marci F on core and balance exercises, and came home to walk Luna. I was pretty tired last night but bolstered as always by Coronation Street at 7.30 - (Todd you can’t marry Sarah – you’re Gay. Now you’re off the hook because it looks like she lost the baby.) I grew up with this show, and with two transplanted Mancunians in the house my bias was doomed from an early age.
Sleep came like a lead blanket at 11, following a few minutes of couch-induced forays into ‘nighthood’.
“I’m not sleeping, I’m just resting my weary eyes.”
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
Monday, February 21, 2005
Goodbye Hunter Thompson
Goodbye Hunter, We'll miss you. Did we really expect you to go out any other way? Anyone unfamiliar with the great gonzo journalist might start with 'Fear and Loathing In Las Vegas'.
· The Gonzo Site
· NY Review Says Adios
Today I ran on the treadmill for the first time (which tired me out but felt great), and had a chance to check out the other side of the coin when I spoke with a recently diagnosed acoustic neuroma patient. I'm glad I didn't have to make the agonizing choice between gamma knife and micro-surgery, and it felt good to help. I had two MRI scans, two CT scans, diagnosis, and surgery all within a five-week span, how smooth is that? I'm happy I didn't have months to think about it the choices - too many bad dreams.
Good luck and best wishes to K.
· The Gonzo Site
· NY Review Says Adios
Today I ran on the treadmill for the first time (which tired me out but felt great), and had a chance to check out the other side of the coin when I spoke with a recently diagnosed acoustic neuroma patient. I'm glad I didn't have to make the agonizing choice between gamma knife and micro-surgery, and it felt good to help. I had two MRI scans, two CT scans, diagnosis, and surgery all within a five-week span, how smooth is that? I'm happy I didn't have months to think about it the choices - too many bad dreams.
Good luck and best wishes to K.
Friday, February 18, 2005
Now Playing: 'Shaved Head' - The Rheostatics
We walked a fast 11.9KM today and had a nice skippy afternoon nap.
"Vinyl Cafe Diaries" by Stuart Maclean is finished (heartwarmingly Canadian) and has been replaced by Dave Barry's "Big Trouble"(one fast read), followed by "The World's Most Dangerous Places" (weapons, wars, and the drug trade) by Robert Pelton. Pelton's book provided the perfect gentle descent into alpha waves this afternoon, the trusty Luna by my side.
I helped Terry set up his new computer (it's a real Bentley BTW) yesterday, and reminded him that it might be a good idea to "check his chill" when his mouse wouldn’t budge. When an optical mouse is on a glass table it needs a pad to register - go figure.
I just had a nice long bath and shaved my head, revealing my dandy new scar in the process. I think it makes me look 'tough', and bothers me not in the least. As James would say, "It's about time you got some scars, so far you've gotten off Scot free."
"Vinyl Cafe Diaries" by Stuart Maclean is finished (heartwarmingly Canadian) and has been replaced by Dave Barry's "Big Trouble"(one fast read), followed by "The World's Most Dangerous Places" (weapons, wars, and the drug trade) by Robert Pelton. Pelton's book provided the perfect gentle descent into alpha waves this afternoon, the trusty Luna by my side.
I helped Terry set up his new computer (it's a real Bentley BTW) yesterday, and reminded him that it might be a good idea to "check his chill" when his mouse wouldn’t budge. When an optical mouse is on a glass table it needs a pad to register - go figure.
I just had a nice long bath and shaved my head, revealing my dandy new scar in the process. I think it makes me look 'tough', and bothers me not in the least. As James would say, "It's about time you got some scars, so far you've gotten off Scot free."
Thursday, February 17, 2005
Danke Schoen NHL Hockey
I went to the gym yesterday for a balance exercise workout with a really incredible and talented trainer by the name of Marci Figuer. She has a ton of experience, and pays careful attention to to the needs of individual clients. Marci and her 'eagle eye' can be found at http://www.eclipsefitness.com/
Inline skates and bicycling are next. (Following the purchase of a fancy new helmet of course. Bumping my noggin is apparently a "bad idea", especially for least for the next three months. ) http://sportsmedicine.about.com/cs/toppicks/tp/aatp_helmets.htm
By the way, I bought a pair of Yaktrax Pro ice cleats yesterday and tried them out on a brisk afternoon walk at Taylor Creek. They're smashing. (See the link below.)
Goodbye to NHL Hockey for the season. If one ever needed a reminder that greed is a dish best never served at all, this is it.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
The Return of Joe Gatineau
Is this about the fearless poutine loving Ottawa Valley favourite Joe Gatineau - star of stage, screen, and television?
http://www.flyingcanoetraders.com/content/legend.asp
http://www.flyingcanoetraders.com/content/legend.asp
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
National Child Care
9.8 Kilometre Fast Walk with LunaChick:
South to Coxwell
West on Danforth
North on Broadview
East on Cosburn to home.
I'm hungry.
I also need to go downtown to buy new ice cleats, my pins fell out. Safety first! Kudos to those who invented Yaktrax - recipient of my hard-earned dollars today: http://www.yaktrax.com/
South to Coxwell
West on Danforth
North on Broadview
East on Cosburn to home.
I'm hungry.
I also need to go downtown to buy new ice cleats, my pins fell out. Safety first! Kudos to those who invented Yaktrax - recipient of my hard-earned dollars today: http://www.yaktrax.com/
First Workout
I had my first workout yesterday: Twenty minutes on the spinning bike in the studio, followed by fifteen minutes on an elliptical trainer. The music sounded good and it was great to see Tess on the machine beside me - good times. I was wearing my heart rate monitor, and noticed my heart rate comes up pretty fast at this point; I’ll have to be careful. I need to watch the pressure on the head, I don't need to spring a (CSF) leak. Joan of Arc left some cookies at the club for me, tasty goodness – yes indeed and thanks! (BTW - I gained a paltry 4 pounds so far - no shake.)
I’ve got to build my strength up gradually – inline skates and bicycles are next. Affirm, affirm.
T-Shirt Ideas:
“If You’re Behind Me, Chances Are I Didn’t Hear You.”
“Could You Repeat That? I Didn’t See Your Lips The First Time.”
“Selective Hearing In Session - (When It Comes To Manual Labour.)”
"How's Your Rearview?"
And with a click of the glass from Bootsauce: “Eh?” on the front, and “Huh?” on the back.
I’ve got to build my strength up gradually – inline skates and bicycles are next. Affirm, affirm.
T-Shirt Ideas:
“If You’re Behind Me, Chances Are I Didn’t Hear You.”
“Could You Repeat That? I Didn’t See Your Lips The First Time.”
“Selective Hearing In Session - (When It Comes To Manual Labour.)”
"How's Your Rearview?"
And with a click of the glass from Bootsauce: “Eh?” on the front, and “Huh?” on the back.
Monday, February 14, 2005
Saturday, February 12, 2005
Can't Shake That Geek
Hola,
My days consist of mega walks with the WonderDog Luna, “Vinyl Café Diaries” by Stuart MacLean, eating, listening to the radio, and sleeping. I celebrated my first 30 days post-op on Wednesday and all is groovy.
I can’t believe how tired I get at night: I fall into the deep and cozy caverns of the couch at 8.00PM, rise to the sweet dulcet tones of Star Jones and the View at 10.50PM and then I’m gonzo again until 6.30AM when I rise to put the coffee on – “The Great Canadian Coffee” as President’s Choice so aptly describe it as they scrape the underbelly of Tim Horton – it’s cheaper and tastes about the same. As far as the sleeping goes, some people characterize it “sleeping like a teenager”. Right now I sleep about 10 – 14 hours a day. Luna loves to hear me get up; she likes to run to the backyard in an attempt to surprise the squirrels and birds, poor buggers. I’m hoping they know all about the pesky White Dog, and run away in time.
I feel mentally strong, but am still physically weaker – time heals all, and thankfully I’ve got some time before I go back to work. I want to hit the ground running and don’t want to be the guy who leaves early “because he’s tired”, there's too much to do. I notice I’m not as sharp and eloquent when talking to strangers, there’s something else I need to work on to get back to my jovial self. It’s minimal but there nonetheless, I think it’s a self-confidence thing. (Of course I could lie or not mention it, but hey – I’ve gone public. (Did I tell you about the catheter?)
I went to Eclipse on Thursday to say hello, it was great to see you all, and the renovations look so amazing. I start balance exercises, stability ball, cardio, and very light weight there next week. I’m also going to see the Spinning Studio to listen, check the microphone, ride the bike and see how the room feels. (Recognizing that ambient sound is a bit of a clucker, I’m going to try to check out a class next week as well to hear the barrage of conversation that takes place prior to start.) I’m so looking forward to going back to the gym to work this and the other kinks out, and see all the cool fitness types and friends at the club.
Baci Be Gone.
PS - I think it's time for an electronic pad drum kit for the house. Whaddya think? It's cheaper than a Harley. I should use this opportunity to try to squeeze a 'midlife crisis' toy into the equation. Are you there Tess?
PSS - I started driving on Wednesday.
Wed - 14 KM
Thurs - 9KM (Slacker)
Fri - 15KM
Sat -?
My days consist of mega walks with the WonderDog Luna, “Vinyl Café Diaries” by Stuart MacLean, eating, listening to the radio, and sleeping. I celebrated my first 30 days post-op on Wednesday and all is groovy.
I can’t believe how tired I get at night: I fall into the deep and cozy caverns of the couch at 8.00PM, rise to the sweet dulcet tones of Star Jones and the View at 10.50PM and then I’m gonzo again until 6.30AM when I rise to put the coffee on – “The Great Canadian Coffee” as President’s Choice so aptly describe it as they scrape the underbelly of Tim Horton – it’s cheaper and tastes about the same. As far as the sleeping goes, some people characterize it “sleeping like a teenager”. Right now I sleep about 10 – 14 hours a day. Luna loves to hear me get up; she likes to run to the backyard in an attempt to surprise the squirrels and birds, poor buggers. I’m hoping they know all about the pesky White Dog, and run away in time.
I feel mentally strong, but am still physically weaker – time heals all, and thankfully I’ve got some time before I go back to work. I want to hit the ground running and don’t want to be the guy who leaves early “because he’s tired”, there's too much to do. I notice I’m not as sharp and eloquent when talking to strangers, there’s something else I need to work on to get back to my jovial self. It’s minimal but there nonetheless, I think it’s a self-confidence thing. (Of course I could lie or not mention it, but hey – I’ve gone public. (Did I tell you about the catheter?)
I went to Eclipse on Thursday to say hello, it was great to see you all, and the renovations look so amazing. I start balance exercises, stability ball, cardio, and very light weight there next week. I’m also going to see the Spinning Studio to listen, check the microphone, ride the bike and see how the room feels. (Recognizing that ambient sound is a bit of a clucker, I’m going to try to check out a class next week as well to hear the barrage of conversation that takes place prior to start.) I’m so looking forward to going back to the gym to work this and the other kinks out, and see all the cool fitness types and friends at the club.
Baci Be Gone.
PS - I think it's time for an electronic pad drum kit for the house. Whaddya think? It's cheaper than a Harley. I should use this opportunity to try to squeeze a 'midlife crisis' toy into the equation. Are you there Tess?
PSS - I started driving on Wednesday.
Wed - 14 KM
Thurs - 9KM (Slacker)
Fri - 15KM
Sat -?
Tuesday, February 08, 2005
Mahalo
I would be remiss if at this point I didn’t say thank you all for throwing a little energy my way throughout this entire process. Everyone has been so supportive and I’m grateful to all who have been in touch via email or telephone, those who’ve posted, or anyone connected to sending the Light East this way any amount of time – I appreciate it. I’m so blessed and thankful to have friends like you, and try not to take this or any other good fortune lightly.
That's All.
Cheers.
That's All.
Cheers.
Monday, February 07, 2005
Hockey Night In Canada and the Superbowl
Go Alouettes!
I went to see the the lads last night at a place in Newmarket and watch a little bit of the game, but in true fashion didn't know who was playing until my arrival. (Neither did TL - good man.) What is it they say about the exploitation of corporate sports by the military-industrial driven mass-media?
It was great to see everyone and although the room was a little loud and the ambient sound a bit too much, things were much better after I plugged my good ear - it seemed to even things out a bit. It was tiring and conversations took some real focus, but well worth it. (BR - aka Sick Boy: "Bell me on the mobby") was in fine form, and telling good jokes: "Two Irish Catholics named Patrick and Michael wanted to join the IRA..." I had a cranberry-soda, no junk food passed my lips, and I lasted two hours before TL and I took our townie-butts south.
I'm doing some research related to one-sided deafness, ambient sound, tinnitus, and balance. These are the biggest hurdles for me, that of course and the size of my 'sliver', but that in no way is of any major concern at this point - it gets no energy, thanks very much.
No hockey this year, I feel for the fans. Greed is a trait best avoided.
"Happiness is a butterfly, which when pursued, is always just beyond your grasp, but which, if you sit quietly, may alight upon you."
Nathaniel Hawthorne
I went to see the the lads last night at a place in Newmarket and watch a little bit of the game, but in true fashion didn't know who was playing until my arrival. (Neither did TL - good man.) What is it they say about the exploitation of corporate sports by the military-industrial driven mass-media?
It was great to see everyone and although the room was a little loud and the ambient sound a bit too much, things were much better after I plugged my good ear - it seemed to even things out a bit. It was tiring and conversations took some real focus, but well worth it. (BR - aka Sick Boy: "Bell me on the mobby") was in fine form, and telling good jokes: "Two Irish Catholics named Patrick and Michael wanted to join the IRA..." I had a cranberry-soda, no junk food passed my lips, and I lasted two hours before TL and I took our townie-butts south.
I'm doing some research related to one-sided deafness, ambient sound, tinnitus, and balance. These are the biggest hurdles for me, that of course and the size of my 'sliver', but that in no way is of any major concern at this point - it gets no energy, thanks very much.
No hockey this year, I feel for the fans. Greed is a trait best avoided.
"Happiness is a butterfly, which when pursued, is always just beyond your grasp, but which, if you sit quietly, may alight upon you."
Nathaniel Hawthorne
Saturday, February 05, 2005
Links and Photos
As Buddy Miles might say, my mind is goin’ through them changes.
Feel free to post links and photos in the Bravenet spot(s) provided under the archives to your right. I can guarantee if you leave it up to me, I’ll just keep trying to keep the younger generation on the chuckle, learn HTML and insert as I go, but maybe photos are a good idea? Scan away. Are there any good links out there?
Tell Me Something Good, Hook a Brother Up, and Say It Loud.
Maybe you can use web-mail and a fake name if you’re more comfortable like Joe Satriani did in the Guestbook.
Feel free to post links and photos in the Bravenet spot(s) provided under the archives to your right. I can guarantee if you leave it up to me, I’ll just keep trying to keep the younger generation on the chuckle, learn HTML and insert as I go, but maybe photos are a good idea? Scan away. Are there any good links out there?
Tell Me Something Good, Hook a Brother Up, and Say It Loud.
Maybe you can use web-mail and a fake name if you’re more comfortable like Joe Satriani did in the Guestbook.
Friday, February 04, 2005
To The PL Rangers
Hey Everyone,
Glad to see you're reading.
Although I'm doing a reasonable amount of writing and walking, I don't want you guys to get the impression that I'm yet dancing like Michael Flatley - yikes, there's an image!
Unfortunately, I can't come to lunch with you today, as much as I miss your fine selves and the office. I have to avoid any undue opportunistic infections (read: colds) as I'm still in danger of developing a cerebrospinal fluid leak, and a respiratory infection at this point would be a big drag. Although I’m doing well, I just had a really big tumour removed and have to take it slow for a while, although I will be in the car with my wife downstairs later this afternoon to pick a plate of your fine booty – so tasty.
Sorry, the next PL-Potluck will have to do me, and believe me when I say I can well imagine who might be bringing the cutlery today.
Happy Friday!
Trivia Question: The first person who posts the correct answer will win an all expenses paid visit to the Front Street Tim Horton's upon my return. Score to Date: RM - 1
Who led the Metis in the rebellions at Red River in 1870 and in the northwest in 1885?
Glad to see you're reading.
Although I'm doing a reasonable amount of writing and walking, I don't want you guys to get the impression that I'm yet dancing like Michael Flatley - yikes, there's an image!
Unfortunately, I can't come to lunch with you today, as much as I miss your fine selves and the office. I have to avoid any undue opportunistic infections (read: colds) as I'm still in danger of developing a cerebrospinal fluid leak, and a respiratory infection at this point would be a big drag. Although I’m doing well, I just had a really big tumour removed and have to take it slow for a while, although I will be in the car with my wife downstairs later this afternoon to pick a plate of your fine booty – so tasty.
Sorry, the next PL-Potluck will have to do me, and believe me when I say I can well imagine who might be bringing the cutlery today.
Happy Friday!
Trivia Question: The first person who posts the correct answer will win an all expenses paid visit to the Front Street Tim Horton's upon my return. Score to Date: RM - 1
Who led the Metis in the rebellions at Red River in 1870 and in the northwest in 1885?
Thursday, February 03, 2005
Kudos To The Team
An email I sent to Sunnybrook and Women's College today:
Hi All,
I just want to take this opportunity to express my sincerest gratitude to you all for my acoustic neuroma excision, and my ongoing contact with the office. Although this was a major event for me it was 'business as usual' for the team, and I'm so pleased to write that the experience has been as efficient as it has since diagnosis Dec 9. I’m doing incredibly well, have had little to no complications, and am now walking about 15 KM Per Day. (Surgery Date: Jan. 12)
Cheryl, Karen, Dr. J Chen, Dr. F. Pirouzmand, Dr. B. Rotenberg, Dr. A. Marshall, Daryl Sparkes R.N., and everyone involved deserve enormous kudos. I realize how lucky I am to have had such a wonderfully talented team do the work, and realize how rare it was to have such great results with such a large tumour. (5.5CM)
Please feel free to add me to your list of patient contacts and pass my number and email to prospective patients. I have a weblog journal that takes a lighter view of my journey with acoustic neuroma that I started just after diagnosis, please pass this on as well. http://www.lalleytumour.blogspot.com/
Enjoy each day and best regards,
John Lalley
19grapes@rogers.com
"Let us be grateful to those who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our soul blossom."
Marcel Proust
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
Distance Count
I'm up to 15KM as of today.
Walk One took place this morning with Tess and Luna north on Coxwell to Taylor Creek and back through the long way through Mortimer; Walk Two was a solo afternoon effort south on Woodbine, west on Danforth, north on Donlands, and back on Plains Rd. My balance is awkward when I turn my head to focus as I'm walking, but no one knows because my gait is normal.
I love reading Mordechai Richler.
Affirm, affirm, affirm.
Walk One took place this morning with Tess and Luna north on Coxwell to Taylor Creek and back through the long way through Mortimer; Walk Two was a solo afternoon effort south on Woodbine, west on Danforth, north on Donlands, and back on Plains Rd. My balance is awkward when I turn my head to focus as I'm walking, but no one knows because my gait is normal.
I love reading Mordechai Richler.
Affirm, affirm, affirm.
Snowboarding Dreams
I had my first non-AN dream (that I remember) last night, Tess and I were snowboarding in the Rockies somewhere enjoying the good times. We started on the baby-hills and moved on to the big stuff. I take this as a good sign, and although I'm glad this January is over, I'd never be so bold as to will this beautifully short and balmy Toronto February away.
I walked at least 10KM yesterday (half-solo, half on city streets), and today celebrate the small victories.
I walked at least 10KM yesterday (half-solo, half on city streets), and today celebrate the small victories.
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Operating Room Notes
Editors Note: Turns out it was only 5.5 CM, do I feel cheated.
PS - I like the "Service Date" ...
Sunnybrook & Women's College
Health Sciences Centre
Sunnybrook Campus
OPERATIVE NOTE
PT NAME: LALLEY, JOHN
SERVICE DATE: 12-JAN-2005
PREOPERATIVE DIAGNOSIS:
Right large cystic Vestibular Schwannoma (5.5 CM) with hearing loss and imbalance with facial
numbness.
POSTOPERATIVE DIAGNOSIS:
PROCEDURE:
1) Translabyrinthine infratentorial excision of tumour and microscopic dissection and facial nerve monitoring. Duraplasty, labyrinthectomy and abdominal fat graft and periosteal flap closure and temporalis fascia
SURGEON: Dr. JOSEPH CHEN
ASSISTANT: Dr. F. Pirouzmand I Dr. B. Rotenberg I Dr. A. Marshall
PROCEDURE:
This man with a large right CP angle tumour with a large cystic component and significant brainstem and cerebellar compression. He has a right sided progressive hearing loss and imbalance with mild trigeminal symptoms as well. He understands the options for treatment and has decided to undergo surgical treatment. He was apprised of the benefits of this surgery. Preoperative investigations showed no contraindication to surgery.
OPERATION: The patient was identified and brought to the O/R suite. Under general anaesthetic and under oral tracheal intubation, the patient was positioned for surgery. His head was fixed in a Mayfield head frame. The posterior scalp was shaved and the facial nerve monitoring was established as well as the trigeminal nerve and the smaller drains and the somatosensory evoked potentials.The attention was then focused on the abdomen whereby a left mid quadrant transverse incision was made, and a large morsel of fat obtained to be used at a later stage.The skin was closed in a standard fashion with a suction drain. Then following this, the head was prepped and draped and a large post auricular incision was made and the dissection was then carried out. A large Paiva periosteal flap and temporalis muscle rotational flap were prepared and later used.
Using a Bien aire drill, a large mastoidectomy and decompression of the middle cranial fossa and sigmoid sinus were completed. Following this and under the microscope. a labyrinthectomy and the translabyrinthine bony resection was then prepared. The posterior fossa dura was likewise
decompressed. The superior petrosal sinus was skeletonized and preserved. The dura of the posterior fossa was incised and partially excised to gain entrance to the CP angle.
A large cystic lesion was encountered whereby the contents of the cyst was evacuated to reduce the size of the tumour. Following this. there was gentle retraction of the sigmoid sinus and the cerebellum allowed better exposure of the posterior fossa. With meticulous sharp and blunt dissection, the cystic capsule was removed from the cerebellum.
The CSF was drained from the lateral and the basal cisterns to-decompress the posterior fossa. A large solid tumour was encountered within the CP angle whereby gradual debulking was carried out within the 4 tumour capsule. When this was completed, the tumour was mobilized very gently from the brain stem in the superior and the posterior boundaries. Inferiorly the tumour appeared to be stuck to the lower cranial nerves and a sliver of tumour was preserved to protect the lower cranial nerves. Superiorly.the petrosal vein was preserved and the tumour dissected gently away from it and from the trigeminalnerve.
Laterally, the tumour was removed from the internal auditory canal. Following the facial nerve. the nerve was felt to be displaced anteriorly initially and inferiorly towards the brain stem. All the tumour in this area was removed and dissected meticulously away from the facial nerve to maintain the nerve integrity and function. There was very little irritability within the facial nerve while monitored. The nerve stimulated well to bipolar stimulation at 0.01 mA. All visible tumour was removed except for a small sliver stuck up to the brainstem root at the exit zone of the lower cranial nerves. The decision was made to preserve this area and to avoid injuring the lower cranial nerves. Hemostasis was obtained throughout the procedure using bipolar coagulation and Gelfoam as well as Surgicel. There was no active bleeding and at the termination of the case and even with positive intrathoracic pressure.
The posterior fossa was repaired using temporalis fascia and abdominal fat and connective tissue obliterating middle ear space and bone wax obliterating all mastoid air cells. The abdominal fat was placed within the surgical cavity and stabilized with Tisseel. Paiva periosteal flap was returned and used to obliterate the surgical defect along with the rotation of temporalis muscle flap. The wound was closed in layers using #2.0 and #3.0 Dexon as well as skin staples. A standard dressing was applied.
Total estimated blood loss was less than 200 cc and the patient tolerated the procedure well and he was then brought to the recovery room and then extubated without difficulty.
He had excellent and normal facial nerve function in the recovery room.
PS - I like the "Service Date" ...
Sunnybrook & Women's College
Health Sciences Centre
Sunnybrook Campus
OPERATIVE NOTE
PT NAME: LALLEY, JOHN
SERVICE DATE: 12-JAN-2005
PREOPERATIVE DIAGNOSIS:
Right large cystic Vestibular Schwannoma (5.5 CM) with hearing loss and imbalance with facial
numbness.
POSTOPERATIVE DIAGNOSIS:
PROCEDURE:
1) Translabyrinthine infratentorial excision of tumour and microscopic dissection and facial nerve monitoring. Duraplasty, labyrinthectomy and abdominal fat graft and periosteal flap closure and temporalis fascia
SURGEON: Dr. JOSEPH CHEN
ASSISTANT: Dr. F. Pirouzmand I Dr. B. Rotenberg I Dr. A. Marshall
PROCEDURE:
This man with a large right CP angle tumour with a large cystic component and significant brainstem and cerebellar compression. He has a right sided progressive hearing loss and imbalance with mild trigeminal symptoms as well. He understands the options for treatment and has decided to undergo surgical treatment. He was apprised of the benefits of this surgery. Preoperative investigations showed no contraindication to surgery.
OPERATION: The patient was identified and brought to the O/R suite. Under general anaesthetic and under oral tracheal intubation, the patient was positioned for surgery. His head was fixed in a Mayfield head frame. The posterior scalp was shaved and the facial nerve monitoring was established as well as the trigeminal nerve and the smaller drains and the somatosensory evoked potentials.The attention was then focused on the abdomen whereby a left mid quadrant transverse incision was made, and a large morsel of fat obtained to be used at a later stage.The skin was closed in a standard fashion with a suction drain. Then following this, the head was prepped and draped and a large post auricular incision was made and the dissection was then carried out. A large Paiva periosteal flap and temporalis muscle rotational flap were prepared and later used.
Using a Bien aire drill, a large mastoidectomy and decompression of the middle cranial fossa and sigmoid sinus were completed. Following this and under the microscope. a labyrinthectomy and the translabyrinthine bony resection was then prepared. The posterior fossa dura was likewise
decompressed. The superior petrosal sinus was skeletonized and preserved. The dura of the posterior fossa was incised and partially excised to gain entrance to the CP angle.
A large cystic lesion was encountered whereby the contents of the cyst was evacuated to reduce the size of the tumour. Following this. there was gentle retraction of the sigmoid sinus and the cerebellum allowed better exposure of the posterior fossa. With meticulous sharp and blunt dissection, the cystic capsule was removed from the cerebellum.
The CSF was drained from the lateral and the basal cisterns to-decompress the posterior fossa. A large solid tumour was encountered within the CP angle whereby gradual debulking was carried out within the 4 tumour capsule. When this was completed, the tumour was mobilized very gently from the brain stem in the superior and the posterior boundaries. Inferiorly the tumour appeared to be stuck to the lower cranial nerves and a sliver of tumour was preserved to protect the lower cranial nerves. Superiorly.the petrosal vein was preserved and the tumour dissected gently away from it and from the trigeminalnerve.
Laterally, the tumour was removed from the internal auditory canal. Following the facial nerve. the nerve was felt to be displaced anteriorly initially and inferiorly towards the brain stem. All the tumour in this area was removed and dissected meticulously away from the facial nerve to maintain the nerve integrity and function. There was very little irritability within the facial nerve while monitored. The nerve stimulated well to bipolar stimulation at 0.01 mA. All visible tumour was removed except for a small sliver stuck up to the brainstem root at the exit zone of the lower cranial nerves. The decision was made to preserve this area and to avoid injuring the lower cranial nerves. Hemostasis was obtained throughout the procedure using bipolar coagulation and Gelfoam as well as Surgicel. There was no active bleeding and at the termination of the case and even with positive intrathoracic pressure.
The posterior fossa was repaired using temporalis fascia and abdominal fat and connective tissue obliterating middle ear space and bone wax obliterating all mastoid air cells. The abdominal fat was placed within the surgical cavity and stabilized with Tisseel. Paiva periosteal flap was returned and used to obliterate the surgical defect along with the rotation of temporalis muscle flap. The wound was closed in layers using #2.0 and #3.0 Dexon as well as skin staples. A standard dressing was applied.
Total estimated blood loss was less than 200 cc and the patient tolerated the procedure well and he was then brought to the recovery room and then extubated without difficulty.
He had excellent and normal facial nerve function in the recovery room.
Arrested Development
I just went back to some patient stories on various sites and they’re just so sad, I think I need to navigate away for a while. I can’t believe my good fortune, and wonder do I owe this to karma? I think my slate is pretty clean, but how clean could it be? My complications are minimal and although I could list everything that’s wrong and how recovery is a slow process why bother. Listing the negatives is just a bummer all around.
Today is Day Seven on the steroids on the only side effect I’ve noticed is a penchant for the aforementioned Baci Ice Cream, and Clodhoppers from the Bulk Barn, not to mention flax, blueberries, strawberries, grapes, organic cereal, and sweet peppers. My taste buds haven’t been affected, and everything tastes good. (Insert Scottish Accent Here: "Tess is dune a good joab on mah belly.") I think I’ve maybe gained two pounds post-op, and this’ll certainly be dealt with as soon as I get back to the gym and correct that caloric balance.
I must be feeling better. I’ve already started obsessing about work!
Now Playing: “Dragonfly On Bay Street”
Ron Sexsmith
Onscreen: "Arrested Development"
Kudos to Jason and Eclipse - How did I miss this?
Written Word: "Porno" by Irvine Welsh followed by "Barney's Version" by Mordechai Richler
Today is Day Seven on the steroids on the only side effect I’ve noticed is a penchant for the aforementioned Baci Ice Cream, and Clodhoppers from the Bulk Barn, not to mention flax, blueberries, strawberries, grapes, organic cereal, and sweet peppers. My taste buds haven’t been affected, and everything tastes good. (Insert Scottish Accent Here: "Tess is dune a good joab on mah belly.") I think I’ve maybe gained two pounds post-op, and this’ll certainly be dealt with as soon as I get back to the gym and correct that caloric balance.
I must be feeling better. I’ve already started obsessing about work!
Now Playing: “Dragonfly On Bay Street”
Ron Sexsmith
Onscreen: "Arrested Development"
Kudos to Jason and Eclipse - How did I miss this?
Written Word: "Porno" by Irvine Welsh followed by "Barney's Version" by Mordechai Richler
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