During the latter part of this time period it was also time for the tumor they found back in April to be removed. Clinically, the tumor is called a benign pituitary adenoma. Mine was a macroadenoma (large) and had to come out as it pushed on the optic nerves and was wrapped around the carotid arteries in my head. Endocrine tests revealed that mine did not produce any hormones as only a slightly increased level of Human Growth Hormone(HGH) was noticed. I considered that good, as I would probably not have to be on any meds after surgery. Unbelievably, the way they now remove these tumors is to go thru one side of the nose (nostril) and bore thru the soft bony mass into the cavity in your head between your eyes and behind your nose where the pituitary sits.

They took the tumor out in 12 pieces in an operation that lasted 4 hours. I awoke with only a slight headache and no other symptoms. I was out of ICU the next day and taking walks around the building. The next day after that I was released and drove home. I was out of work 2 weeks but really didn't feel a need to be. I started back to work and was doing quite well. The next weekend though I overdid it too early on some household chores and had some bad headaches to deal with and a sinus infection. All cleared up within a week and I continue to recover very well. The tumor was indeed benign and they believe it has all been removed with no problems. I do not have any complications as a result of the surgery and no one would ever know I had any surgery. The next MRI to check it out will be in December 2004. Kudo's to my neurosurgeon (Dr. Lillehei in Denver) who has to be the best in this entire area!