Hi CT,

Sorry I'm no medic so I can't answer your specific problems, I can offer
some reassurance with a biopsy though.  My husband had a GBM, located quite
central in his brain and to confirm this they took a needle biopsy.
Although he was very anxious about this, his recovery from the procedure was
pretty swift and within a few hours of being brought back to the ward, he
was up and about demanding a cup of tea.

I wish you well, the journey can be a bit of a rollercoaster but try and
stay positive.

Warm Hugs

Alayne

I mean hydrocephalus...sorry

Hi CT.

As J wrote earlier, I don't think you'll find an adequate answer via a
usenet board.  Meeting with a neurosurgeon and holding back no
questions is probably the best advice anyone can give you.

I just crossed my 5 year cancer free window after having a brain tumor
removed from my right frontal lobe (an oligodendroglioma, but I call
him "Ollie" for short).  For my situation at the time, a craniotomy was
really the only option to ascertain the tumor type.  Luckily, the
technology these days is incredible.  I was treated at UCLA and was
operated on using their MRI operating room, which allows the
neurosurgeon kind of a "real time" look at the tumor area via MRI,
which gives greater assurance the entire tumor can be removed.  But,
like real estate, location is everything.  There was little risk of
"damaging" other areas during surgery.  I'm certain the location and
depth in the tissue determines the "risk" factor, as well as the
patient's overall health prior to any procedure.

I know the location of mine is essentially "opposite" of your mothers,
but I survived it.  I received the "trifecta:"  craniotomy, radiation,
and chemo.  I was fortunate, too, that the resection area was very
accessible.  I've practically lived in an MRI for 5 years following
(thank God for decent insurance!).  I've learned that both oncology
nurses and doctors are eager to answer any questions you might have.
There are no "dumb" questions in this matter.  I kept a yellow pad
around that I used specifically for questions.  I think the neuro
oncologist found it helpful and was relieved that I was going to be an
informed patient about the ordeal.  Having specific, even basic
questions opened up a relaxed dialogue.  This, I feel, was crucial and
extremely beneficial to my recovery.  I wish the same for your Mom.
I'll send a prayer for her and for you.   Sometimes, I think it's
emotionally tougher on the spectators.  As a patient, at least I got to
sleep through the scary parts such as surgery.  (wish I could say the
same about the chemo, but I'm here to type this, so I can't really
complain.  In the infusion center, I witnessed struggles of some of the
most incredible fighters I've ever encountered.  Compared to them, I
feel I had it easy.)

Best of luck to your mother and to you.  I hope you find thorough
answers to all your questions.