[Elvgrengrl]

Need help in Austin, TX

quote :

This sounds like it could be an inguinal hernia, although they can be difficult to diagnose in women, particularly if they are small. If the MRI the gastroenterologist ordered was of the abdomen and pelvis, then sometimes the MRI can detect it. Most often, we order CT scans (abd/pelvis) with contrast to diagnose these, especially if you’ve had any prior surgery (including c-section, hysterectomy, etc.). It could also be a different type of hernia, a Spigelian hernia, as Dr. Towfigh mentioned and these can be seen on CT as well. My practice is in San Antonio, but if you’re willing to drive down I’ll be glad to see you; we could get the CT in the clinic in the morning before your appointment, that way I could see the images and examine you at the same visit. Our office number @ UTMedicine is 450-9200.

Dr. Kent. Thank you SO much for replying!!!

The MRI was only of the pelvis. He had ordered both pelvic and abdomen but the imaging place refused to both at the same time and I didn’t want the contrast two days in a row and didn’t want to pay for 2 MRIs. I have had no surgeries.

I looked and you’re on my In Network list. Unfortunately, I’m nowhere near hitting my deductible and not sure when I’ll be able to afford the CT, but this sounds like a brilliant plan for me. Knowing you are on this site makes me so much more confident that I will get an answer. A couple questions about this plan:

1. I’m allergic to CT contrast dye, which is why I asked for the MRI. What can be done about the hives/swollen limbs that happen to me with the dye?

2. Is the CT down laying down?

3. Do you know if a CT of the ab and pelvis is considered 1 or 2 CTs cost-wise?

4. When I call to make an appointment do I mention that we talked prior and that you suggested a CT pre-appt?

It might be July before I can come see you, but just knowing I will eventually get a proper diagnosis makes me happy. 🙂

Thanks again!

[Elvgrengrl]

Need help in Austin, TX

quote :

Welcome to the world of negligence and ignorance in the medical profession – your story is so familiar. and, I refuse to see any doctor in San Antonio. Sounds pretty condemning but I’ve been treated for chronic pain because nobody wanted to bother – mesh in four places after unnecessary surgeries.
don’t let them push you around; before you know it, they’ll have you thinking you are nuts….I know I’m not.
Best of luck to you.

Skaadland,

I’m so sorry that you’ve had to go through unnecessary surgeries and that you’re struggling as well. It’s definitely a tricky and frustrating thing. We live pretty close to one another and I’m open to emailing you personally if you need an ear.

May I ask if you’ve seen Dr. Van Sickle? Why do you refuse to see any doctor in San Antonio? Is it simply because you’re tired of getting nowhere like me?

[Elvgrengrl]

Need help in Austin, TX

Not sure if the image went through … trying again.

[Elvgrengrl]

Need help in Austin, TX

Spigelian Hernia isn’t resonating with me. Mine seems lower.
I drew a circle around where I can feel the hard knot when I tighten and pointed it up in the direction it goes.
The x marks where the pinching can go down my leg.
Do you know a specialist in Houston or San Antonio?

PS: Thank you for your quick reply and sorry for the super long initial post. 🙂