Dear Doctor Dellon, Here is a photo of our son (Ignacio F. Chavez) who was a patient of yours. He had the partially paralyzed shoulder from playing football.  He was able to play this year and made it thru with no additional injuries.  We prayed God would give him just his senior year of playing football, and God, answered our prayers.  We just want to thank you and your staff for the great hospitality and appreciate all the assistance you provided to us during his recovery.  We also would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Patricia R. Chavez, (Ignacio's Mom)

Sierra Vista, Arizona

Dear Dr Dellon,

It was hard for most people to understand the frustration and suffering I experienced from more  than 20 years of sporadic episodes of unexplained shooting pain in my toes. I saw multiple neurologists, orthopedists, pain specialists, osteopaths, chiropractors and therapists, and nobody had an explanation or a solution. I was even told by an emergency room doctor that there are no nerves in the top of my big toe, so I couldn't be feeling the pain that brought to him at 2 am and that I knew was absolutely real!

I would wake up in the middle of the night crying with pain and it would last for two to three days, and nothing helped. Eventually, having figured out which nerve was most likely the cause, and following an unsuccessful attempt by another surgeon to decompress the suspected nerve, the pain was constant and only a substantial  daily dose of codeine relieved it.

Researching on line and following trails of information finally led us to you. The most amazing thing was your immediate comprehension of the problem and your willingness to try to track down the exact site of the nerve compression and attempt a surgical procedure to correct it. You suspected that the nerve was caught at the site of a 30 year old fracture of the tibia that had gradually built up scar tissue that trapped the nerve. To relieve the pain in my toes I needed surgery above the fracture site on my calf. Then, when the surgery was only partially successful, it became clear that an adjacent nerve was also trapped in the same area.  You immediately scheduled  a second surgery three weeks later to complete the job and relieve my pain.

Now, at the six week mark, I am off the codeine and relieved of all its nasty side effects. Last week, as you predicted,  I returned to my favorite activity, sailing, and was jumping around the boat barefoot doing my usual tasks. Today I rode my bike for the first time in months. I still have some prickly sensation in the toes, especially at night, but it is quite bearable. Since it is gradually subsiding, I expect to be completely free of pain in the not too distant future.

I am 68 years young, and now feel that I have many years of productive activity ahead of me. I had almost lost hope that I could travel or commit myself to accept volunteer or family responsibilities since I never knew when I would be in severe pain or heavily drugged, or incapacitated for days at a time.  As so many of your patients seem to say, I have my life back thanks to you.

Kayla Niles

Laura Olsen Testimonial 09 15 07

Dr. Dellon-

         I hope all is well with you. I wanted to write you since it has  been 
almost a year since you operated on me and give you an update. I am 
doing and feeling great! Thanks to you. After my hernia repair, my abdominal and hip pain was  so severe I couldn't hold a job or even do normal household chores.  I had three years of pain until finally I was referred to you. Any activity at all would cause a shooting aching pain through my  abdomen and hip and it would radiate down my leg and into my lower  back. The first surgery you did relieved me of a majority of my pain and 
allowed me to quit all the drug prescriptions I was then taking. The 
second nerve surgery on my hip you did completely relieved me of all my pain. 
Now I am living a normal life, as opposed to being bed ridden and 
weighing less than 100 lbs.

      I currently have a job at the University of Arizona, College of 
Medicine-Phoenix as an administrative assistant for a fellowship 
program. It is really nice to have a job and to not call in sick. I 
also have been able to participate in any physical activity I like 
without pain. I have attached a photo of me wakeboarding, which is something I 
love to do but used to have to sit in the boat and just watch.

       Words  cannot describe how grateful I am that I was able to be in your 
care. Thanks again for everything. Your talent and 
knowledge have really blessed my life along with many others.

Sincerely-

Laura Olson

Dr. Peled,

 This is a letter I feel is most necessary to thank you for my knee surgeries and the difference they have made in my life.  What a miracle this has been for me; my quality of life has been totally improved.  These are just a few of the ways in which my life has changed:
• Today, I am able to join to my family and friends to go shopping, buy groceries, and cook meals without having to quit as I could not stand long enough to finish what I had started.
• I could not stand to get goods, pots and pans, and clothes that were located in the lower drawers.  My knees were in such pain when trying to reach any of these items. 

Before this wonderful surgery, my pain was unbearable.  All this came about when I had replacements of both knees.  Having fibromyalgia, some of the nerve endings would not heal and this resulted in a great deal of pain for me.  If I tried to get into any of the above-mentioned postures and with any changes in the weather, what it would do to me is almost unbelievable.  Now, I can do all these moves without any pain at all!

The surgery itself was not painful.  I only felt soreness around the stitches.  I was able to get up and walk within an hour after waking up from surgery.

Thank you, Dr. Peled.

Helen L. Pierson
Tucson, Arizona

Dr. Peled,

I am glad I found you and other members of the Dellon Institute.  After my brain surgery, couple of years ago, my right side had remained rather compromised.  When we came to Tucson, we were committed to getting help with my right hand and right leg.  Your interest, concern, and professional expertise have been great for me.  Of note, has been the thorough preparation and detailed steps you had me take before surgery on my right hand.  You take time to explain procedures and you are easy to talk with.  Now that the surgery is completed, your prescribed therapy is really helping me regain use and control of my hand.  I look forward now to resuming more of my hobbies in the future.

Thank you!

Cynthia W.

Dear Dr. Ziv Peled,

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude and heartfelt thanks for the wonderful care and consideration I have been the recipient of while under your care. The patient care that started at the hospital and carried on throughout my surgery and recovery was outstanding.

I could not have asked for a more understanding and caring Doctor or staff to help get me through one of the most difficult times in my life. You have not only made it possible for me to continue on in my professional life as a craftsman in many trades by repairing the nerves and tendons in my hand, but also in the many hobbies like motorcycling and boating that I love and enjoy.

I am eternally grateful to you for this second chance in life and words could never really express what this means to me and my family.

If any of the photos or records from my surgery and recovery can be used to further educate or help someone else in any way I gladly give my permission as the very least I can do to repay what was done for me.

Respectfully and with many thanks,
Jason E. Davis

Anita Myers Baltimore, Maryland 4/16/07

 
Dear Dr. Eric Williams.
 
It has now been 8 weeks since you performed surgery on the Morton's Neuroma in my left foot.  I had been suffering with this condition for about seven years, and the severity of it was getting worse with each passing year.  In my efforts to walk on that foot, I started developing hip, knee and back problems as well.  When on my feet, I was in constant, sometimes excruciating pain. 
 
I liked your approach, which was to preserve my nerve, and not remove it as so many other doctor’s had suggested.  So you did the “neurolysis”, just dividing the ligament that was pinching the nerve.... and the pain is G-O-N-E!!!... and so are the aches and problems in my back, hip and knees!!!  My chiropractor even released me from his care, as I no longer needed therapy to keep me going.  I have every confidence that the numbness will also subside in time, and I look forward to regaining agility as I increase my physical activities... WITHOUT PAIN, WITHOUT CANE!!
 
I will always be grateful to you and to the Dellon Institutes.
 
Sincerely,
 
Anita Myers
Baltimore, Maryland

      
      The joy of swimming is important to me, but the joy of my being able to live my life is certainly even more important.  Your expertise is the reason that I walked across that stage, that I am able to take my niece into the water,  that I am able to coach and that I am able to continue my studies.
     
      My family and I are so grateful for what you have given us and we can not ever thank you enough. 
      
           Thank you!
Teresa Rosetti,

Doug and Linda Berkley Somerset, Pa August 13, 2006

Dear Dr Dellon,

I wanted to write to you of my amazing progress since your surgery just three weeks ago.  You will remember that my left leg was largely paralyzed after my being in a coma due to liver failure three years ago. The liver transplant at the University of Pittsburgh saved my life, but my painful leg has kept me an invalid.

After you released the compartments in my leg, and removed the scar tissue from the nerves, my foot is working again. Just wanted you to see how motivated I am and getting more range of motion by using pool therapy.  I am is also wearing hiking boots around the house and around our farm.

Jeane Plourde, Tahoe, NV, June 27, 2006

Dr. D, Tx to you, I have NO pain since surgery. I never thought I would ever be able to say that. You not only brought hope back in my life, you gave me back my life. How can one give enough thanks for such a miraculous gift? Due to my previous brachial plexus surgery, where they removed a rib from my armpit, my neck and shoulder hurt, I had migraine headaches, my breast hurt, and my hand was weak and tingling. I could not lift my hand over my head.  I will be done with detox in one month (suboxen). Please accept my heartfilled love and admiration for your God given talent and dedication.

Jeanne

Linda DeMeritt, Meadville, PA, June 20, 2006

Dear Dr. Dellon,

Yesterday I was in Baltimore to see Dr. Rosson and retake the nerve test.  You might remember that exactly one year ago I first saw you there about my ankle saga, and at the end of July you operated. It was a redo for the third time of tarsal tunnel. Well, I am writing to say a huge thanks.

Compared to last year, and the preceding five years, I am doing wonderfully. I can now walk a mile and I have even played golf twice. I can stand around at the many receptions I attend for a good hour (perhaps this is the only drawback of my improved status!!!), and I don't worry at all about walking anywhere on campus any longer. I went to Vienna a couple of weeks ago, and although I did overdo it a bit, I nonetheless was able to walk around the inner city and take a small "hike" into the Viennese Woods.

Dr. Rosson mentioned to me that the success rate for third-time redos was not as high as you would like to see, but at least in my case you improved the quality of my life dramatically. I don't know what I would have done if you had not operated. I cannot thank you enough for giving me back so many of life's pleasures.

Again, thank you from the bottom of my heart!! It feels so wonderful to walk again without pain.

Sincerely,
Linda DeMeritt

Denise Smathers, Tiffin, Ohio, June 19, 2006

For over two years, I struggled with pain, numbness and progressive weakness in my right foot, ankle and leg. I saw specialist after specialist and had numerous tests: MRI's, X-RAYS, EMG's... I finally found an Orthopedic surgeon at The Cleveland Clinic who discovered that I had a tumor on the nerve that controls my walking, the common peroneal nerve. He tried twice with surgery and did remove the tumor, but my symptoms came back each time. By March of 2006, I couldn't lift my right toes off the ground and was tripping and falling more and more. My surgeon knew of a doctor who dealt just with nerve-related problems:   Dr. A. Lee Dellon. I flew to Baltimore, met Dr. Dellon and had surgery on April 20. Amazingly, when I awoke from the one and one-half hour operation, I could already move my foot and wiggle my toes freely! Since that day, I haven't tripped even once. My recovery has been smooth and quick, and my foot and ankle feel stronger each day. I still can't quite believe it's real, and I find myself kicking off my shoe and flexing my toes several times a day, just to make sure they work! I will be forever grateful to Dr. Dellon and his wonderful staff for the excellent care I received.

Thank you Dr. Dellon!

Mike and Tammi Coleman, Denver, Colorado  May 2006

May 12th, 2004 (Two years ago) I was roping a cow off of my ATV (4 Wheeler) when the rope wrapped around my hand, arm and tire. It yanked me off and I was drug from behind the ATV. I sustained multiple injuries including a shattered left hip, frontal brain injury, a severe Brachial Plexsus injury of the left arm, compound fractures of two fingers, and a missing finger.

After a series of surgeries I have remarkable function considering the Neurologists in Colorado did not give me any hope of ever using my arm or hand again. I'm sending you photos of me scuba diving, kayaking and drinking a toast to you in Belize, Central America!

Thanks for everything!

The Cowboy and The Nurse

Anonymous, from Northern Virginia  April 2006

Dr. Dellon,

My groin surgery was eight months ago today. I wanted to send you a progress report feel that I have made great progress. You remember that I had 11 operations in 16 months before your help.

First, the measurable progress:

• I am no longer in constant, excruciating pain.
• I am no longer on enough narcotics for ten junkies. My last dose of narcotic medication was October 3, 2004.
• I do not have an implanted electronic stimulation device.
• I have no open surgical wounds or infections.
• Since you untangled my nerves, I have regained all sexual function. I had lost at least 85% before surgery.
• I have regained a great deal of my concentration, memory, and the ability to do complex mathematical and financial computations. The combination of multiple surgeries, anesthesia, and pain medications had limited most of these functions, along with the ability to write creatively.

On most days I am able to:
• Drive a few miles around town.
• Run short errands to the store, post office, library, and bank.
• Eat lunch with a friend.
• Tutor a high school student in math and science.
• On really good days I can walk around the block.

I am so much better than I was the day that I first walked into your office. Thank you for all that you have done to make my life more liveable.

Kate McGrath, Wilmington, MA  May 20, 2006

Dear Doctor Hung and Doctor Dellon,

After six years of constant, never-ending pain, several knee surgeries, pain blocks, a multitude of braces, crutches, hundreds of hours of physical therapy, TENS Units, and pain subscriptions of all types, my diagnosis of RSD (Reflexive Sympathetic Dystrophy) remained untreated. I went to many doctors at different hospitals and they all did the same thing, epidural pain blocks, medicines, pain patches, and TENS Units that never helped. I felt hopeless because no one had a solution for me and all I wanted was to live a pain free day. Then I had the great fortune of being referred to your office by my physical therapist that heard about other miracles that you have performed.

Now, a short three months after the knee denervation surgery, my knee is amazing! I forgot how it felt to not have pain every second of the day, but now I can go through a day of school and sports and not have that distraction. It is a phenomenal feeling! I am running two miles a day at lacrosse and more during the weekend. I was able to walk all around Europe and actually enjoy it because there was nothing slowing me down. I am captain of my high school lacrosse team and I can be less distracted and more aggressive as goalie in varsity field hockey. I am also very excited that sports can again be part of my college search. It is such a relief to play my sports pain free now, to be able to do normal kid things, and most importantly, to have that obstacle of dealing with the pain out of my life.

This would have never been possible without your extraordinary work and intelligence in this field of medicine. You two are my true heroes for finally making my life more enjoyable and pain-free. There is nothing I could every say or do to show you my gratitude.

Thank-You so much,

Kate McGrath
Wilmington, MA

Karen Sliver , Rossville, Illinois, May 24, 2006

Just an update for Dr. Steck and Rocilo: I can hardly believe that about 3 weeks ago I was typing my story in here in desperation with little hope after 4 years of failures and extreme pain. 2 weeks post surgery it is completely obvious the nerve pain is GONE. GOD BLESS YOU!!! My 4 children and my husband (2 dogs and 2 horses as well) thank you and I thank you a million times a million. Tears of joy have fallen SO many times in the last weeks. I got my stitches out yesterday, the wounds look beautiful and there is just the residual bruising type soreness. The healing comes in leaps and bounds. I will remember you and what you did for me and my family FOREVER.

I may see you soon for my right foot. By the way, I've always wanted to come to AZ,now I know why! Because you were there to save me! It is a stunningly beautiful and extraordinarily different environment than I've ever seen. God bless you and thank you again.

Karen Silver

Sari Connolly, Las Vegas, Nevada, January 17, 2006

Dear Dr. Dellon,

Thank you. I'm doing great! In fact, I ran in the Las Vegas Marathon last month and am teaching 7 classes a week. My foot feels 100% fine... just a little itch on the scar every now and then. Otherwise it's perfect!

I would also like to say that the post surgery was completely painless. I didn't have one second of pain, and that was a very pleasant surprise. In fact, I taught kickboxing 4 days after surgery... but only jumped on one foot.

I am sending you the picture they took of me at the finish line...

Sari
Las Vegas, NV

Audrey Jacks, New Orleans, LA , September 2005

Dear Dr Dellon,

It has now been 8 months since you did the surgery that took the pressure off the nerves in my left foot. It was three years since that painful neuropathy began. My feet were even starting to turn colors. It was worse with walking, which caused terrific pain. No one knew the cause of my neuropathy. You found that there were three different places in my leg where my nerves were compressed.

I have to tell you that I am truly getting better. So much so that I really don't think I will need to have the other foot done, which is hard to understand. It is not 100% yet, but it so much better than before. I'm able to walk quite a lot now without pain. I bouth an elliptical machine and am using it very gently.

Here is a picture of me on my machine excercising at home.

Guess you are busy as before. Are you still teaching? Tell Lisa, Rita, and Gina, the girls in your office hello for me. I am so grateful for all you've done for me.

Audry Jacks
Metairie, (New Orleans), La.

Susan Brown(Anna's Mother), La Jolla, CA, September 2005

Dear Dr Dellon:

Anna and I wanted to give you a follow-up report on how her right foot is doing following your surgery three years ago. At that time she stopped competitive figure skating because of the pain in the dorsum (top) of her right foot. This hurt particularly with take offs and landings during her jumps. She had seen many doctors as she was competing at the level of the national team. There were no stress fractures, and she had tried all types of skates. You diagnosed an entrapment a nerve on the top of her foot , beneath a tendon and crossing a bone. This is compression of the deep peroneal nerve, a condition you first described. Well..........

All is well, Anna's foot is great, She is finishing her last year in college in Colorado, and well, missed skating so much she is training and doing triple jumps again. She will be going to qualifying competitions . She loves the compitition so , and can now look at it somehow with new eyes !!! The foot is as if nothing had ever happened to it ....

Again Thank you ....
Susan Brown
La Jolla, CA

Susan Smiley, Dublin, Ohio, June 2005

Dear Dr Dellon:

Just a note to let you know I'm doing much better since having the pelvic nerve resections (June 2004 and Sept. 2004). The pelvic pain has gone away. No longer do I have the aggravating pelvic pain that I've had to live with for 6 years. After having the right side done in June, I then suffered the remainder of the summer with left sided pelvic pain until having the surgery in September. Now, I have a deep sensation on either side more like a pressure sensation maybe numbness- but it is so much better than the intolerable nerve pain. You really have given me my life back.

I'm so grateful to you for all your help. I just thank God that I was able to find you - I was given no hope for significant relief of my pain. Thank you for your research in nerve surgery and your interest in educating physicians in this topic. It is certainly very much needed.

Let me know if you have a foundation for future contributions to nerve research, or have a medical organization that needs contributions. I would like to help in any way that I can.

Thank you so much!
Susan Smiley

JWCbb, St. Andrews, Scotland, April 2005

JWCbb completing 18 holes at St. Andrew's Old Course, Scotland, three years after bilater peripheral nerve decompressions by Dr. A. Lee Dellon.

Nancy Bourne, Anchorage, Alaska 2005

Dr Heilala's success in Alaska using the Dellon approach for neuropathy.

Dear Dr Dellon:

I am the grateful recipient of your surgical approach to painful peripheral neuropathy.

Dr. Heilala in Ankerage , Alaska, recommended and performed the procuedure for each of my feet/legs this past winter.

My results are decreased pain, better sleep, and general improvedment in quality of life. This is much to my family's delight, especially the grandchildren. My Neurontin dose is already cut in half, and I am still improving.

I also want to thank my medical physician, Dr. Orzechowski, for his original referral to Dr. Heilala, who trained with you in the technique for peripheral nerve decompression in patients with neuropathy.

Sincerely,
Nancy Bourne

Steven Lisberger, Santa Monica, CA, March 2005

I had a laprascopic hernia repair that fixed my hernia but left me with permanent nerve damage. The chronic pain left me completely disabled for years. I needed medication to make it through the day. After two unsuccessful exploratory surgeries by other surgeons I found Dr. Dellon. There is no better way to say it - Dr. Dellon gave me my life back.

Not only had the original surgery left me in chronic pain but the problem seemed impossible to diagnosis and repair. Before Dr. Dellon, I had 2 MRIs, numerous nerve blocks, countless visits to neurologists, hernia specialists, and neurosurgeons in Los Angeles and New York, and the problem seemed to be beyond the reach of all of them. I had lost all faith in modern medicine. I was warned that any nerve surgery would only increase my existing pain, or worse, might leave me with phantom pain, and that I would have to be on pain medication the rest of my life. I was told by numerous doctors and surgeons that no one would ever really know what went wrong. My prognosis couldn't have been worse. It was the most trying time of my life. It was all too clear to me that most surgeons prefer cookie cutter operations and once one is no longer 'normal' they would just as soon avoid you and your problem, even if they created it.

Dr. Dellon was the exact opposite. He was confident, extremely knowledgeable, experienced, and more than ready to take on the "basket case" I was. At first one asks oneself why he is so different than the others? The answer is what I hoped it was. He gets an enormous amount of satisfaction from pitting his exceptional surgical abilities and intellect against very difficult and unique surgical problems that are beyond the capabilities of average surgeons.

When he operated on me, after those years of excruciating pain I barely dared to hope for a positive outcome. He had a difficult time getting my confidence up. It is now over five years since his surgery and I am pain free. He located the source of my pain, an errant surgical tack and he cut two of my groin nerves just like he said he would. I had immediate relief. In my case, and he said this would occur, I had some intermittent aches and pains over the next two years or so, as my nerves healed, numbness abated, and my mind struggled to get used to not having constant pain. I must admit during that time I was scared more than once that these pains might be the return of my problem but he said it wasn't and again he was right. Looking back on that time I realize it was all part of the recovery process not just for my body but for my mind as well. These days I ski, chop wood, body surf and do anything a fifty something person can do. I am not sure if my faith in modern medicine is restored but my faith in Dr. Dellon makes up for it.

Thomas Gluzak, Winchester, Va, February 2005

Dear Doctors Dellon and Rosson, and Dellon Institute Staff,

Thank you so much for the wonderful care you have given in fixing the injury to my right arm. It is now four years since the arm was almost completely torn off by that drilling machine at work, but only 9 months since you have been working on me.

I am just amazed at how good my arm looks where you removed my skin graft. I am now able to tolerate touching that area again and the area near my elbow.

I really appreciate all that you have done for me and my family. I will continue to pray that God will give you the knowledge and patience to continue in helping all the patients in your care.

Thomas Gluzak

Greg Phillips, Syracuse, N.Y., January 2005

Dear Dr. Dellon,

You are a very special doctor and I owe my recovery to you. If you remember a year ago this past October you operated on my Tarsal Tunnel. Here it is almost a year and a half latter and I am doing GREAT!

Thanks to you and your professional office staff I am about 80% better. I can now walk without pain and stand again. I cannot thank you enough for all you have done and I would highly recommend you to anyone that needs this operation.

Greg Phillips
Syracuse, N.Y.

Marilyn Pavey, North Carolina, January 2005

Dear Dr. Dellon,

You operated on me just 6 weeks ago on December 13, 2004. My surgery was tarsal tunnel decompression on my right leg. It has healed well. I am not a diabetic. I am going back to work tomorrow on January 24,2005. Dr. Seavers from Washington, N.C. did my post operative care this time as before.

Thank the good Lord for doctors like you because you have kept me out of pain. I would recommend anyone to go to you. You care about your patients. May God always bless you.

Thank you!
Marilyn Pavey
Washington, N.C.

Linda Bszotski, Pennsylvania, December 2004

Dear Dr. Dellon:

My life has changed in so many ways because of the surgery that you did. The pain in my left leg, the one that required amputation is now gone. I did not realize how much pain I was in. I had gotten used to it, but then I could no longer wear my prosthesis. Now, after your surgery, I am sleeping again, enjoying eating again, and smiling again.

I have enclosed photos of me playing golf and skiing, wearing the prosthesis.

You were able to find the painful nerves, and relocate them. Words cannot express how I feel. I have my life back.

The word has to get out about peripheral nerve damage, so others with pain can be helped.

Linda Bszotski
Nicholson, Pennsylvania

Carolyn Little, Altavista, Virginia, December 2004

To Whom it May Concern,

I am a former patient of Dr. Dellon. He did nerve decompressions in both of my feet and both of my hands, requiring four different operations over the course of one year. My hands and feet continue now to have feeling and relief of pain. He was the first to tell me I had a neuropathy related to what they called then "predibetes" and now they call the Metabolic Syndrome, or hyperinsulinemia. He predicted that one day I would be told that I had diabetes, and last year, in fact , they did finally make that diagnosis.

I first saw him in 1994, the first of many visits. And the first of many surgeries. Surgeries which saved me years of pain and diablities in my arms and hands. I owe him so much. He gave me hope and a diagnosis when Doctors in Virginia did nothing.

I will never forget him and I constantly tell others about him. Not only about his abilities in the operating room but also of his caring and wonderful treatment of his patients. A Doctor who cares and shows it!

I owe him much, but I know that there is no way I can ever repay him, except to ask God to Bless him always!

Carolyn Little
Altavista, Virginia

Yang Yao, MD, Peking Union Medical College, December 2004

Dear Sir:

I have given lectures in our hospital, Peking Union Medical College , in Beijing, China, and in Diabetes Association meeting, whose members are around the whole country. I wrote a paper about the Dellon procedure and it was published by the Bridge newspaper around China. Then I was referred several patients in my outpatient clinic. I carefully choose 2 patients who were very suitable for the surgery.

First patient is a 72 years old lady who suffered from DM for about 20 years and who felt both feet numbness for about 3 years, especially the left foot. Her Tinel's sign is positive. The second patient is a 25 years young man who was been a diabetic, type I patient for 4 years and who has unendurable feet pain for 6 months. His Tinel's was positive. His pain is became so severe that he must take some morphine (60mg/day) to control it. I have performed the first 2 cases of Dellon procedure in China on these two patients on 11/22/04!

The woman's peripheral nerve was swollen just as you showed me when I was studying with you in Baltimore. The young man, in contrast, had nerves that were very thin and pale. I tried to decompress every site you told me. I used the microscope.

To my surprise both patient's symptoms disappeared after the surgery. The older lady's numbness is gone and now the young man only need 10 mg morphine every day because his opposite, unoperated leg still feels pain but his right leg almost feels no pain.

These 2 cases of Dellon Procedure were reported by our country's newspaper HEALTH NEWS. My Chief of Neurosurgery, Professor Wang, was very glad for the result. Today I show the 2 patient to the whole Endocrinology Department; there were about 50 doctors. They asked the patients to tell what they felt now and the patients told them their improvement was very good. So those doctors totally believed that the Dellon Procedure really can solve the diabetic neuropathy symptoms. The doctors told me they would send patients with diabetic neuropathy to my outpatient clinic.

Sir, I never given up, and I think the first step has been a success. I will perform more and more surgery. Prof. Wang told me that maybe he will invite you to China next year to give some lectures in our national conference. Plus I have translated your little brochure into Chinese.

Yong Yao, MD, Neurosurgery
Peking Union Medical College
Beijing, China

Susan Barry, New Hampshire

Dear Dr. Dellon,

I just wanted to update you on my thumb and say thank you.

My thumb is healing beautifully. The dead skin over the incision has come off and there is hardly a scar, and its only been 3 weeks. The nail bed has toughened up and a new nail is growing! There is no more pain from the healing, just sensitivity to the nail bed, and I'm off painkillers. The feeling is coming back to the pad of my thumb. And...I can go out in the cold with no pain whatsoever for the first time in 7 years!

You said you could cure me, and you did. For that I am eternally grateful, for your wisdom and expertise, and for your concern through the healing. You have been a blessing to me.

Susan Barry

Edward J. Marron, DPM, Oklahoma City, OK

To Whom it May Concern,

I have enjoyed the honor and pleasure to practice Podiatric Medicine   Surgery in Oklahoma for 39 years. My life has been blessed by this art.

Several years ago I had the pleasure of reviewing articles written by Dr. Lee Dellon, MD concerning lower extremity neuropathy. All of my practice life I had been advising patients they had "neuropathy" and there basically was nothing other than medication to offer any relief of the chronic symptoms.

I had some concern with the theory but after meeting and working with Dr. Dellon I began to do the work and have been rewarded with dramatic life altering results.

As a Podiatrist I have helped with patients quality of life. There is no comparison to the increase of these parameters Neurolysis surgery has added.

I have another perspective to offer in that I am an adult onset diabetic. I exhibited considerable pain and numbness in my right lower extremity. I was having problems with balance and negating stairs as well as one ulceration episode. I underwent the multiple Neurolysis procedures with Dr. Dellon as my surgeon and have enjoyed an excellent result.

I have recently submitted a article for publication. The article deals with the fact that 93% of my patients needing bilateral procedures have submitted for the contralateral procedure.

Dr. Dellon’s work has changed my life both in the quality of life and the ability to provide this to my patients. I have delayed my intended retirement from practice to make this available to patients. I am eternally grateful.

Respectfully submitted,
Edward J. Marron, DPM

Grisha & Gregg Phillips, New York, October 2004

Dear Dr. Dellon:

About a year ago my son Gregg was suffering from Tarsal Tunnel syndrome. His case was rather severe and when we would travel, he found it necessary to have a wheelchair. He was constantly in pain and could not walk any distance without some assistance. One day, I picked up a copy of USA Today which featured an article on Podiatry. I guess it was meant to be. Fortunately this article lead us to you. It is obvious why you have such a wonderful reputation in your field. Gregg had been suffering for a few years, seen many different doctors, all with various diagnosis and suggestions. Nothing seem to help him. The doctors were not terribly encouraging. Up until seeing you, we had almost given up all hope of ever finding a successful solution. We were most encouraged by your understanding and grasp of the problem. You instilled confidence and we decided to follow through with your advice and have surgery to correct the problem. Here it is a year later and Gregg is pain free. It is so wonderful to know that he can now plan to go places and do things with his family, and not have to worry about his feet hurting him.

I might also add that both Lisa and Rita in your office were wonderful and extremely helpful. Everything was handled in a very professional manner. The services by everyone were very much appreciated. We hope this letter is an inspiration to others who might be contemplating similar surgery with you.

Gregg joins me in thanking you again for everything. Best regards to you and your competent staff.

Grisha S. Phillips
Gregg Phillips (Syracuse, New York)

Florence Steele, September 2004

Dear Dr. Dellon:

Since the surgeries you did on both my legs and feet three years ago, I can honestly say that I seldom ever have any pain in my legs or feet due to neuropathy. I am experiencing residual pain in my calves from being on the statin, Lipitor, for so many years. As you know, I did not have diabetes, and the cause of my previous neuropathy pain remains unknown.

I recently had a chance to look up your new website, dellonipns.com and although I did not have diabetes, I found the site to be very informative. Also, I finally found the time to go to neuropathysouthwest.com, and find out about the Diabetic Neuropathy Foundation of the Southwest. I think it is a wonderful idea.

I am so very thankful that you took me as a patient and relieved me of the pain in my feet - it has been wonderful to be without pain.

My sincere thanks,

Florence Steele

Mary Davis, Kattskill Bay, NY, September 2003

 I'm not a diabetic. I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer after surgery in December of 1998 and went through chemotherapy from January to May of 1999. Towards the end of chemo, I began to feel tingling and numbness in my hands and feet. Upon finishing chemo, the nurses told me I'd feel "like my 'ole self'"in three months.

The tingling in my hands diminished after chemo while the sensations in my feet escalated and the numbness continued. My feet felt like they were encased in socks filled with tiny glass slivers (24/7). They were hypersensitive to heat and cold. Neurontin (2400 mg/day) and elavil in the evenings "took the edge off", reducing the glass slivers to sand and gravel.

I was working full time, but by the time I got home in the evening, my feet and body were aching so much I wasn't able to continue standing to prepare dinner. I was exhausted from the mental distraction of trying to ignore the pain as I worked through the day. I kept wondering why I wasn't feeling better. My pain level was 9-10 on a 10 scale.

When I walked with others, I found myself unable to keep up, no matter how hard I tried. I didn't feel any better than a month after completing chemo. I had been a ski patroller for 30 years and was no longer able to perform on-hill/on-skis duties. At work, I was finding that tasks such as climbing a ladder or hiking through the woods were approaching impossible (due to loss of sensory/balance and motor functions), leaving me faced with becoming disable and no longer able to work. I was under treatment for depression and had lost the joy in my life.

My oncologist told me that I needed to get out and walk more (before chemo I had been faithfully walking 2 miles a day 4-5 days a week). I tried to return to walking and after a mile, found myself clinging to a telephone pole with tears in my eyes from the pain in my feet. As I took my socks off when I got home, I noticed that they were bloody and found large broken blisters on the bottoms of both feet (so numb I didn't even feel it).

While I continued to be told "there's nothing more (than medication) that can be done," I turned to the internet in search of an answer as to why not. That's where I found Dr. Dellon in October of 2001. After a few exchanges of email, I was in Baltimore for testing and consultation. I learned that my onset predated the research that had been done on chemo induced neuropathy and was advised that although "something could be done" it was unsure as to what extent I might shed the pain and regain sensory and motor function. The explanation of how the chemo damaged the nerves made sense to me and I figured that I had nothing to lose life wasn't worth it living as I was, so any improvement was better than how things were.

I had surgery on my right knee, ankle, and foot in January of 2002 and on the left one in May of 2002. By November I could clearly see progress. I was taking less medication AND I was no longer stumbling when I walked. By late December I realized that I had to discipline myself to not stare at the ground and analyze each step; that I could trust my feet to sense balance as I walked.

I am now (09/03) over a year out from both surgeries. Although I'm still taking medication for the pain (down to 1200-1600 mg. of neurontin daily, depending on my level of activity) and I am not up to full speed, I continue to see progress and have sufficient feeling back in my feet so I no longer stumble and trip and they don't get blistered when I walk. Most importantly, I am no longer living with severe chronic pain (now ranges from 2-5, depending on level of activity, and continues to drop) and I have returned to full duties at work along with resuming recreational activities such as snow skiing that I love so much.

Stacy Hoyt, Kansas City

Our neighbor Susie Myatt has had numerous knee surgeries and is living in constant pain. Below is the copy of the email I sent. My family and I believe so strongly in your knowledge and capabilities that it is hard to not share the excitement and trust we have found in your care.

My arm seems to improve on a daily basis! However, Wilson still knows I have an "owey arm" and does his best to stay away from it, which is hard for any 4 year old.

Blessings
Stacy

Thomas N. Zirkle, January 2004

Before the operation, my feet were in real pain. Even getting out of bed was a real problem because my feet hurt so much. Walking and standing for any amount of time was almost impossible. I could not even pivot up on my toes to get in my truck. I had to pull myself up and in flat footed.

I had tried every orthotic including some that cost two and three hundred dollars. I think they only shift the pain from one area to another and do not do anything to relieve the pain. Other doctors were telling me that foot alignment was the problem when the nerves in my feet were dying.

Pain medications including Neurontin (which is most doctors favorite) only numb the dying nerves so that you may feel less pain.

Dr. Dellon's operation greatly increased the feeling and strength in my feet. The feeling has increased and pain has been reduced. The strength has increased until I can now stand on my tip toes without problems. Getting in the truck is no longer a problem. My stability has improved until I am no longer tripping over objects on the floor. I am able to walk through the house barefooted. As a matter of fact, barefooted is when my feet feel best. I am now able to enjoy hunting and fishing trips without pain!

There are five things I think will help diabetics with foot neuropathy. One, stop pain medications. Two, quit all statin cholesterol medication (get zieta which works in the stomach). Three, get correct and loose fitting shoes. Four, maintain absolute control of your blood glucose level (a 5.7 a1c level). And last, and most important of all, get this operation to increase the blood flow and restore the feeling and strength in your feet.

Kathleen Carter, Maryland, August 2004

Dear Dr. Dellon:

Dr. Ramon DeJesus performed surgery on me at Union Memorial Hospital on August 11, 2004. It has only been two weeks but what an improvement so far. He did Carpal Tunnel, Cubital Tunnel and RNS release. The quality of my life has already increased much more than I can ever express. Thank God for you. I am a diabetic, and now that my hand is doing well, I am planning to have my right hand and feet perfected as well.

Again, Thank you and Dr. DeJesus.

Kathleen S. Carter

Catherine Hamilton, Myrtle Beach, S.C. February 2003.

No matter how hard I tried, I could not stay on my feet long enough to prepare and serve a meal. My doctors had done all they could to keep me comfortable. They were kind but saw me as a lucky patient unwilling to accept the cure after my cancer surgery and chemotherapy. Despite the Neurontin, the pain was still there, and I could not take care of the normal tasks of living. Another drug was added, but this caused a severe side reaction. I stopped seeing the neurologist. I tried exercising at the gym, and walking on the beach, but this was too painful. I began feeling helpless and depressed. Even traveling to "keep my mind occupied" was painful. The depression became worse.

My family, friends and faith kept me fighting for relief. I went to an acupuncture clinic for several weeks. This too was not the answer to my problem. I sat on the beach and prayed. The search began. There must be an answer to this widespread problem. All I learned was that my condition was "progressive and permanent". At this point my feet were burning and freezing and aching all at the same time. My legs tingled from the knees down, and my toes hurt. The soles of my feet were numb and I had to be careful walking on the beach. I was never suicidal, but looked at death as my only relief. I wondered why I had survived a really bad cancer to be left with this kind of life.

Then one day, at the beach, I read an article about a Dr. Werter and Dr. Dellon, and the procedure that "cured neuropathy". I got an appointment to see Dr. Werter. I told him I was 69 and did not care to see 70. My miracle was beginning. I just knew it.

My first surgery was done on my left leg in September 19, of 2002. The surgery was a success. My life was coming back. Now I had hope. On December 5, of 2002, the surgery was done on my right leg. This, too, was a successful surgery. My pain is less every day, and I cannot thank these men enough for the new life I have. This is my miracle. I am ready to live again, love my patient husband, and cherish my children and grand children.

Camilla Gerety, Dallas, Texas, December 2004

I would like to express the gratitude and appreciation I have for my doctor, Charles Singleton. I had the Tarsal Tunnel surgery on October 20, 2004. Before the surgery, I was so afraid because I had never had surgery before and was a bit warey of the outcome. Dr. Singleton helped with my fears with his wonderful bed side manner. He has a fabulous sense of humour and is very light hearted. I honestly don't believe I could have found a better doctor to suit my needs. I can not begin to explain the instant relief I had and how fast I was up and around doing the things I used to do. And without pain! I am due to have the other leg done in January and I can't say that I am worried about it in the least. Thank you, Dr. Singleton! You truely help people get back on their feet and back to their lives!

Camilla Gerety
Dallas, Texas

Michael Rose, MD, Shrewsbury, New Jersey, March 2004

Dear Dr. Dellon:

I did my first neuropathy decompression yesterday.  In the recovery room I tickled the woman's foot a tiny bit through the dressing, and she said she could feel it...I was impressed but planned to reserve judgment until the dressing was down.  Today, I had to take down her dressing on post-op #1 to look at her foot because their was some blood on the bottom of the dressing, and I had no way to know if it was a lot or a little (it was a little).  Before I wrapped her back up, I really gave her a good tickling, and she started to CRY!  I couldn't imagine I had hurt her, so when I asked her why she was crying, she replied that it was because she could actually feel her feet for the first time in years!

That was quite a moment.  Cheers to you!

Michael Rose, MD

The Plastic Surgery Center
Shrewsbury, New Jersey

Joseph Goldin, New York City, New York, July 2004

I have been a diabetic for over 20 years. In that time, I started experiencing neuropathy in my toes, that gradually encompassed my feet, ankles and lower legs, and is now starting to manifest in my hands. The pain involved is incredible, words like burning, cramping, numbness only start to describe these feelings. I have seen neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, and at least six podiatrists in that period. I tried neurontin, which helped me sleep, but knocked me out for too much of the next morning. In the last few years, I have had complications due to the diabetes: charcot joint, hammer toes, infections, osteomyelitis etc. These problems have caused the need for numerous operations, prolonged hospitalization and extended convalescence at home. When Dr. Rick J. Delmonte explained to me about neuropathy decompression procedure, and the possible success rate, I elected to have it done. Dr. Delmonte and Dr. Greenberg performed the operation on June 3rd. For me there was no overnight miracle, but I have regained some feeling, and hope that as time goes by, this will increase. Even if there is no further increase in feeling, if I had even this much a few years ago, I would probably have not lost over 100K in income, and medical expenses that cost the insurance companies in excess of half a million dollars.

Alan Wolfer, New York City, New York, June 2004

I am a non-diabetic whose heel and later foot pain began about one year prior to my recent successful surgery by Dr. Delmonte.

First I developed soreness along the inside area of my left foot, and I was given an orthotic to wear by my first podiatrist. Then he inserted a pad to cushion the area. The soreness turned to pain which increased in intensity with time. Injections came next, three over a period of six months. The diagnosis became plantar fascitis. From that point came, exercises, ice, more injections. the pain spread to my entire foot. A sheet touching my toes caused pain. Standing and walking became acutely painful.

I went to a second podiatrist, had a new orthotic made, continued home exercise, and began three months of PT, whirlpool, tens unit, ultrasound, massage, exercises targeted to strengthening the muscles, ligaments, etc., and finally a night splint. The general foot pain subsided but I was left with acute pain focused at the outer portion of the heel adjacent to the ankle. Common sense suggested that with a focal point there had to be nerve involvement. I thought to seek a new approach and was referred by an old and trusted friend (in whose debt I will be for a long time) to Dr. Rick Delmonte, in New York City.

Dr. Delmonte and his partner Dr. Paul Greenberg concluded, after doing neurosensory testing, that the pain was coming from the calcaneal nerve being constricted. Surgery to relieve the constriction was recommended. The surgery was done on April 22, 2004, using the technique developed by Dr. Dellon in Baltimore. The rest is history. I will be sevety-five (G-d willing) in July and once again look forward to what I have always enjoyed, a good walk, aerobic exercise, and therefore being able to enjoy a few more calories.

You have made it possible for many of us to do more than just go on living. I hope, Dr. Dellon, that your smile is as big as that on Dr. Delmonte's face when I next waltz into his office.

Sincerely,
Alan Wolfer
 

Alan Wolfer, New York City, New York, April 2004

My Soul
What purpose does G-d for my Spirit provide,
except to make my Soul arise;
Why rise, my Spirit asks G-d for me,
enough it makes me smile within;
Not good enough does G-d reply,
except it makes another smile.

(written April 23, 2004 the day after surgery by Rick Delmonte, DPM of New York City, N.Y., and written to Dr. Delmonte as he has made it possible to relieve his chronic foot pain.)

Vicki Rolley, Indiana, August 2004

Dear Dr. Dellon:

Wonderful news. I had my first surgery by Dr. Brandt Dodson on Friday, August 13th. (My lucky day!) I am so thrilled with the outcome. I was able to notice some difference almost immediately. Dr. Dodson says it will continue to get better as time goes by. What a nice man. I was so very comfortable with him. I should schedule my second surgery after the first of the year. Thank-you again. My life will be so much better because of your efforts.

Sincerely
Vicki Rolley

Scott Nickerson, MD, Wyoming, July 2004

Dr. Scott Nickerson, a retired orthopedic surgeon, is a contemporary of Dr. A. Lee Dellon. In addition to being an accomplished surgeon at Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Nickerson has undergone nerve decompression surgery which was successfully performed by Dr. Dellon.

Dear Dr. Biddinger:

Dr. Dellon had given me a lead to your excellent article last month and I had not been able to run it down until your office sent me a reprint this week. Early this month NEJM ( 7/01/04 issue, p. 48-55)had an article about diabetic foot ulcers with no mention of the promise of nerve decompression and I just could not refrain from responding as attached.

I hope they will publish it. If so, you can expect lots of requests for your article.

I am a JHU Med School contemporary of Lee's, retired from orthopedics voluntarily 7+ years ago due to diabetic neuropathy, and heard of his work through an article in the JHU Med Alumni magazine last spring. I had noted in my practice the sparing of lateral foot sensation when doing middle toe amputations without anesthetic in a diabetic, and the light went on. The sural nerve was being spared from entrapment. So I traveled to see Lee, bought into the thesis, and had him do a foot for me.

Three months later, when I saw 50% recovery in 2-point threshold in the operated foot while the unoperated foot had a 75% rise, I became an apostle and have been working at spreading the word ever since. We have started a sensory evaluation at the hospital in our little rural town in Wyoming and 2 of the young partners in my old practice have trained with Lee and done several cases in the last two months.

D. Scott Nickerson, MD
Sheridan, WY

Dr. Ricardo Cook, MD, February 2004

Dear Dr. Dellon, I am very happy to inform you, I performed my first neurolysis. The case went well and the patient is happy with improved feeling in her foot. She almost had tears because her foot was ticklish again. I am glad I spent time with you to learn a different approach to a debilitating disease. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Sincerely
Ricardo Cook, MD

Martha McEldowney

I had my right foot (the worst of the two) operated on in October, 2002 and my left foot in March, 2003. I live in Shawnee Mission, Kansas - next to the Kansas-Missouri state line - the western edge of the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan Area, as it's called. I received another call today about my Letter-to-the-Editor that was printed in the Kansas City Star newspaper several months ago. People in this area seem to be sending copies of my letter to their relatives and friends in other parts of the country. I enjoy talking with these people about nerve decompression surgery and telling them of my experience with it. I give them the address of your web site so they can find a doctor nearest them; if a doctor isn't near I, of course, tell them about Dr. Anderson in Fort Collins, CO., who has helped me so much. I have a letter ready to send to the local Neuropathy Support group which meets at a hospital in Kansas City, MO. Also one to the local podiatrists' organization. I think of these things as I go along. Spreading the word generally and focusing in on patients and doctors now. This is fun and very satisfying to me.

Donna Parker, Houston, Texas, August 2003

Dr. Robert Parker, of Houston Texas, trained with Dr. A. Lee Dellon in the Advanced Lower Extremity Peripheral Nerve Workshop.

Dear Dr. Parker,

I am writing this letter to you to say Thank you to you and your wonderful staff. Although I have had pain in my top foot for years my major problem started in 1997 when my rheumatologist decided to have a piece of my nerve and tissue removed to help him determine if I did indeed have Lupus. This surgery was done on my left ankle. I did as requested and the surgeon of his choice did the procedure.

I was told I should put on a shoe and walk a mile the day after surgery. My ankle was swollen so severely I had a hard time walking to the kitchen and a shoe was impossible. It took many months and lots of physical therapy before I could wear a tennis shoe. Part of the side of my foot and ankle were numb and the other part hurt me a lot. I have gone to five of six doctors to try to find a cure for my foot and ankle pain. I went to a [foot specialist]. He treated my foot for stress fractures three or four times. He assumed the pain in my ankle was due to the way I had been walking due to the stress fracture. I finally stopped seeing him and headed to the medical center. Surely, I could find a good doctor there.

A surgeon that specializes in ankles and feet put a black boot on my foot that went all the way to my knee. Being short the boot went a little higher than it should be and was very uncomfortable. I wore it as instructed for weeks. The last time I saw that doctor he told me that he did not know what was wrong but thought wearing the boot would rest my foot and give it time to heal if I did have a fracture. I saw several other doctors that came out and said they did not know what the problem was and could not help me. They made me feel like they did not feel my pain was real.

So I headed for the foot doctor in my area. He x-rayed my foot and took a look and said 'hmm.' 'Lets do some physical therapy'. Three days a week I went in for a whirlpool soak and an ultrasound and massage. I felt like anyone and everyone in his office did physical therapy. Each one did it a different way. Most therapy sessions were painful. I was scheduled for 6 weeks of therapy and then I was to see the doctor. My ankle hurt so bad that I did not finish the sessions. I was told by the office manager that I had to see the doctor to be released so they could file on my insurance. When I did see him he told me he could not help me if I did not follow his instructions for therapy. He admitted he did not know what was wrong with my foot or ankle. So I decided I was going to learn to live with the pain.

I had to be tough and not think about my left leg and foot. I stopped unnecessary walking. I used to walk down to the mall and back, but at the time I could not look at Foley's from the parking lot and wonder if I could even get to the door. I stayed home more and gained weight. I also got depressed because I hurt so much. All my other doctors told me I must walk and get exercise. No one believed how much pain I was in. I was so desperate to relieve the pain I went back to the doctor in my area and had that same physical therapy done that hurt me so much. The second time was not any better then the first. That was December 2002.

I had just about given up on foot doctors, but in June of this year my dentist told me about you and how much you helped her mother. And the rest is history. The surgery you performed was a miracle.

Irene C. Kuns, Houston, Texas, January 2003

Dr. Robert Parker, of Houston Texas, trained with Dr. A. Lee Dellon in the Advanced Lower Extremity Peripheral Nerve Workshop.

Dearest Dr. Robert G. Parker,

I am writing you this letter to let you know how I feel and how you had give me back my hopes and inspirations. Before I knew you, I had been treated by numerous doctors for a long period of time and none of them could help me heal or at least improve my condition, they could not diagnose what was wrong with me. My husband and I are forever grateful for his care and referral to you.

I had a Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome operation on both my feet on Dec. 7th, 2001. The outcome was not very good; I felt the same as before. I have suffered a lot of pain for a period of a whole year.

After the recent operation, on both of my feet, it feels fantastic, I have no pain, unlike the previous pain, that is no longer present, now I feel the healing and only the pain from surgery and it is getting better every day. I am certain that I will recover sufficient to pursuit my former life. My husband and I are grateful to you Dr. Parker and owe you a great deal. It is also very refreshing to visit your office. Your staff is very pleasant and professional. We believe that God has sent us to your office and to your proficient hand and brilliant mind.

Thank you again and God bless you.
Irene C. Kuns

Suhad A. Hadi, DPM, Shared Insights on the PSSD

Dear Editor of Podiatry Today,

In regard to the article regarding the PSSD, it is a great test. In one particular case, a primary care doctor prescribed codeine for a 30-year old diabetic female for her neuropathic pain, and her patents were frustrated with this. They brought her to our clinic and her clinical exam and PSSD test were positive for indications for neurolysis procedures (as described by Dellon) on her legs.

After the operation to decompress the nerves in each of her legs, she is now holding down a great job, is able to get her shoes on and is no longer taking any type of pain medication. Prior to this, she had been released from several jobs and had put off her wedding until she could get rid of the pain. She was a very rewarding case.

Suhad A. Hadi, DPM

Assistant Professor
Director of Resident Education
Department of Orthopaedics/Podiatry
University of Texas Health Science Center
Podiatry Today, page 16, November 2002

Mary Kay Wallace, Houston, Texas, April 2002

Dr. Robert Parker, of Houston Texas, trained with Dr. A. Lee Dellon in the Advanced Lower Extremity Peripheral Nerve Workshop.

Dear Dr. Parker,

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your wonderful staff for all the kindness and care I was shown during my recent surgery and recuperation.

When I came to your office last summer I was almost unable to walk.  When I walked for a short distance my right foot felt as if I were walking on hot coal.  My left foot was painful, but my right foot was worse.

Today, my right foot is pain free and I look forward to taking long walks once my left foot is healed from my recent surgery.

I would highly recommend this surgery for anyone who suffers from neuropathy.  There is no reason to live a limited life when this surgery is available.

Regards,
Mary Kay Wallace

A Diabetic Patient

I'm not one to write about my problems, matter of fact, I've always been fiercely private about my diabetes for the 20 years I've had it. But I have to try to spread the word about a surgery I just had for diabetic neuropathy. It eliminated my pain immediately. I want to get this out to doctors and diabetics alike. If you know a plastic surgeon or someone interested in new research, show them this information because there is a huge demand for this surgery and a shortage of doctors to perform the operation.

I started having pain and numbness in my feet approximately 2 years ago. Recently it reached a point where it was unbearable and I was relying on pain medication and sleeping pills to get through the days and nights. I remembered an article that my mother had discovered in her continuous research on diabetes complications and treatments.

Your nerves run through several narrow openings where, when the nerves swell from diabetes, they get pinched off. This surgery goes into those places and opens them up to give the nerves more room. A. Lee Dellon, M.D., F.A.C.S. of The Dellon Institutes for Peripheral Nerve Surgery™ in Baltimore, MD pioneered this technique. He does a wonderful job explaining and showing you the basics of what is happening and what he does to alleviate it. The surgery is done on an out-patient basis. Once I had my first surgery I was able to stop taking any pain pills immediately and I slept solid through the nights without having to hang my feet off the bed. I just had the surgery on my second foot and my nerves are slowly regenerating. But I would have to admit that even if my feeling weren't to completely return to my feet I'm still thrilled that the pain is gone.

Kenneth A. Kress, Red Bank, New Jersey, March 2005

Dear Dr. Dellon:

This past summer, I was fortunate to meet Dr. Michael Rose, a Plastic Surgeon from Shrewsbury, New Jersey. He was summoned to the Riverview Medical Center Emergency Room to close a deep wound on my leg. During the procedure he immediately recognized that I had severe neuropathy in my feet. But my neuropathy was different from cases that he had experienced before. Dr. Rose thought I had a Diabetic Foot Neuropathy. However, I am not diabetic. My damage was the result of a prolonged period of taking the pharmaceutical, Thalomid® known as Thalidomide. I do not have and never have had Diabetes, but the neuropathy appeared to be identical to Diabetic Neuropathy.

Dr. Rose discussed the nerve decompression procedure with me and suggested that I speak with my current treating physicians. To be honest, the vote was 2 for and 1 against. The dissenting physician was the one that carried the most influence with my decision. I went to work studying Medline papers and doing as much research as I could find. I decided that the procedure carried less risk than the prospect of years of sleepless and painful nights, the inability to participate in all of my family's activities, and most of all I was tired of taking Neurontin® and trying strong pain killers to get some relief.

I scheduled the surgery on my left leg in July 2004. The procedure went smoothly and I waited for the local anesthesia to dissipate enough for me to be released. Post- surgery Dr. Rose checked in with me in the day stay unit. To my total surprise and pleasure, when Dr. Rose ran his finger down the sole of my foot, it automatically reacted to the tickle response! Think about the enormity of that activity! It had been so long since I felt a normal sensation on my foot, I forgot how a tickle had felt!

My leg and foot continued to improve at a remarkable rate. While I was not happy about the amount of time that I had to stay off the leg, I was tempted to break some of the rules. Improvements seemed to come daily. Prior to the surgery, I had no feeling from external stimulation. I only had severe stinging pains that made walking and frequent falls were a daily occurrence. Not only that, my sleep was so badly interrupted, I had to take strong pain medications and sleeping pills and yet could not manage more than 2 to 3 hours of sleep at a time.

Life is a series of compromises. Thalomid® had performed better than any other drug to control the severe exacerbations of Behcets Disease. I had resigned myself to accept the Neuropathy because the Thalidomide provide me with more relief than any other drug. After the Nerve Decompression Surgery I had at least a 60% improvement within the first four weeks. More than I ever expected. I am still improving, but at a slower rate, of course. We're six months post procedure and I would estimate my improvement at 80 to 85% percent now.

The improvement was so remarkable, I was permitted to have my other leg repaired before the end of September 2004. It was a similar experience and even found myself occasionally tickling my feet for the sheer joy of it! I cannot express how thankful I am. Dr. Dellon your procedure, and the skilled hands of Dr. Rose has relieved me of a very distracting health problem. You will never know how many times I give thanks for this gift.

Now, I wouldn't want to give prospective patients the idea that this is a perfect and immediate return to normalcy. I believe that I will be very close to perfect within the next two years. While it is only 6 months and 3 months post procedure, I have caused some rebound problems by "pushing" myself too hard. (Pushing too hard could be walking more than a mile or walking on unstable surfaces for extended periods of time.) However, if I do not walk too much or try to not challenge my stamina, the improvement returns and I am continuing to gradually find more relief. Essentially, any deterioration of my healing is mostly my fault, I am responsible for my any loss of normalcy by forgetting how poorly I felt prior to the repair of the horrors of foot Neuropathy.

I understand that as many as 60% of Thalidomide patients get neuropathy after prolonged therapy. It would be my greatest hope this procedure can relieve these patients as well as it has helped me. You may feel free to contact me about providing positive feedback to any patients who are terrorized by Thalidomide Neuropathy. Thank you for your innovative thinking and tenacity to develop such a powerfully life changing procedure. And thank you Dr. Rose for expending the efforts to travel to Baltimore to learn at Dr. Dellon's side, despite the lack of confidence other surgeons had displayed. Sometimes a man must defy what is considered convention to cause progress.

Sincerely,
Kenneth A. Kress