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Subject: Re: Pallidotomy Return-Receipt-To: "Barb Colmery" <[log in to unmask]> It is really heartwarming to learn about a treatment with what sounds like a positive response (at least for a time) in most situations. However, I am floored by the cost of the procedure, especially when you consider the relatively brief duration of surgery & hospitalization. I received shockwave treatment (ESWL) for kidney stones last year, with secondary complications resulting in hospitalization for a week and was stunned by the $16,000 bill for this "minor" outpatient procedure (though grateful most of it was covered by insurance). However, that included 6 days of hospitalization, 2 surgical procedures (1 relatively minor) under anesthesia including the ESWL, and re-admission through the emergency room. I would be interested to hear any opinions on how Loma Linda justifies such a seemingly astronomical fee. At a glance, since this is the only treatment that really offers some restoration of previous functioning, it would appear that they might be taking advantage of people who are desperate for any relief possible. I do understand that this must help cover the expense of developing the treatment, but it still seems out of line. However, I wouldn't take away from its apparent success in relieving major symptoms and disability. I am also amazed that insurances cover the fee. Again, it isn't that I don't appreciate the wonderful benefits apparently experienced by those treated. Thanks, Barb > Date: Thu, 6 Oct 1994 11:29:31 EDT > From: Don Berns <[log in to unmask]> > Subject: Pallidotomy > Dear Albert Ferris-Prabhu, > > I am glad you found the info on the Pallidotomy helpful. A > Pallidotomy on one side takes about 2 hours at Loma Linda and on > both sides about 3 hours. Loma Linda and Dr Iacono is the only > doctor in the world currently doing simultaneous bilateral (both > sides) Pallidotomies. > Some of the counter indications are the possibility of > bleeding and a possible stroke. There is also a very slight risk > of losing part of a field of vision. Outside of this there are > the normal surgical risks. > The average cost at Loma Linda is $20,000 for a unilateral > and $30,000 for a biilateral. Most insurance covers the cost and > it is not considered experimental but therapeutic. > Th Pallidotomy is effective for all the symptoms of > Parkinson's disease. It takes anywhere from 2-3 months to > schedule an appt. with Dr Iacono 909-796-4822. > The stay in the hospital barring any complications is > limited to one day. Check-in the morning of surgery and check > out the next morning. > The first step I would recommend your taking is to make an > appt. with Dr Iacono and come out for a consultation. > > Sincerely, > > Don Berns <[log in to unmask]> > [log in to unmask]> > Barb Colmery ([log in to unmask])