http://www.intelligencer.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3091255

New doubts about an experimental surgery for multiple sclerosis haven't shaken the faith of two local patients.

Local MS patients Mike Martin and Margaret Hanley say they've benefited from chronic cerebro-spinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) and research should continue.

"It was worth the $13,000 I spent … even for the marginal improvement I've noticed," said Martin, 53, of Frankford.

The surgery is similar to the angioplasty procedure for heart patients. Blood vessels are expanded, improving blood flow.

But a University of Buffalo study has raised questions about whether the procedure treats the cause of MS or simply a symptom.

Martin was diagnosed with MS in 1981 and had the surgery Dec. 22, 2010 in California.

"From the patient's perspective, even a little bit of improvement is worth the risk of the surgery"

"I hope this procedure doesn't have to be a cure for it to be worthwhile for other patients," Martin said.

"My symptoms are probably 20 to 30 per cent better. I don't feel fatigued as much; I'm able to walk that little bit farther.

"Hopefully this procedure will keep me out of a wheelchair," he said.

Martin said he favours more study of the method.

"Since the surgery's already been done on me, why not study me?"

Margaret Hanley, 52, of Belleville underwent CCVSI last August in India.

"Because of this my circulation has definitely improved and I do have more energy," she said. "To me it was definitely a good thing and it was worth the money.

"I'm not regressing."

She said it would be "stupidity" to call the technique a cure.

"They're still researching so much that everything's still questionable.

"I was anticipating better recovery," Hanley said, estimating her improvement at 20 per cent.

But for both local patients, it may be too soon to gauge the full effect. Hanley said she was told that might not be clear for six to 18 months.

In the meantime, she said, "you really have to help yourself." She said she's swimming five times a week and exercising.

Hanley said she doesn't think the recent questions will stop research from continuing — and that's good.

"I would highly recommend the doctor that I dealt with and I would definitely recommend the liberation treatment. I would never say, 'Don't try it.'"

lhendry@intelligencer.ca