The electrophysiological 'velocity' test and the myelogram confirm there is definitely a nerve problem, almost certainly L-5 (a part of the sciatic nerve).
The physiatrist, Dr. Deverin, has asked for insurance approval to try a "selective nerve root block" in L-5 to see if that stops the pain. If not, she will try "transforaminal epidural injections" in L-3 and L-4. And she prescribes Topomax which can help nerve healing.
The insurance company may be getting a little testy. They denied payment for the last lab test (these babies cost more than $2,000 each), and we'll be appealing that decision.
Marina's sodium level was 132 yesterday, up one point from a month ago despite normal liquid diet, which is encouraging but not good enough says Dr. Deverin, hence no Neurontin yet.
There's more, but not urgent, and I am very tired just now.
Posted by John Bear
at 4:49 PM PST
