tarlov cyst

[mamamoka]

My MRI revealed a"large mass"  which was identified as a tarlov cyst. It has grown in size since a previous MRI  ten years ago. It also revealed bone erosion, and pressure on nerve roots. I have become increasingly symtomatic over the years with recurrent bouts of severe back pain with radiation into both legs, and bowel incontinence. I've been in and out of physical therapy several times, use a TENS unit, utilize aquatic therapy, had epidurals, etc., with only temporary pain relief. I refuse to take narcotics, with the exception of tramadol occasionally.  I am also becoming more dysfuntional in that I've had to cut my hours to part-time (  I'm an RN ), I cannot sit for more than 15 minutes at a time, or shop more than one hour.  I do only minimal house/yard work now. I've also experienced bouts of depression, which I believe are directly related to the chronic pain. I also have had fibromyalgia for almost 25 years. I have days in which I cannot get out of bed, turn over in the bed, or make it to the bathroom on my own. Sometimes it gets me down and I no longer want to live. ( Not to worry--I'm not suicidal--I just want to be pain free). My question is should I try to have surgery or not? What is the success rate of such surgery, and which doctor/hospital  has the best success rate?  ........Thank you!

[Gems21]

I also have Tarlov cysts. They will become increasingly more debilitating, esp with more activity. Over the years I've become completely bedridden. (although I also have several other spinal problems)

My advice, if you have a physician willing to prescribe opioid pain medication, take it! Only take what you need to function and if you find yourself craving more, quit. Generally, if you take what you need to function, you'll be fine.