brackley
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Heartfelt thanks to the latest three Moderators, Marions, Randi & Pam who have posted such kind and encouraging messages! You have all eased some of my anxiety and for that, I am most grateful!
Hugs to All,
Judy
Lainy, thank you for your latest post!
The surgery will be at the Moncton Hospital in Moncton, New Brunswick. (NB is one of Canada’s Maritime Provinces. We are from Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest province – also a Maritime Province, along with Nova Scotia.)
To travel to New Brunswick, we go across the Confederation Bridge, the world’s longest bridge over ice-covered waters! It’s a 9 mile crossing!
The surgeon mentioned that all my husband’s nutritional needs will be met for the first week by the feeding tube.
My husband is a more relaxed personality type than I am which is a good thing! However, he was just looking for a sleeping pill as he can’t sleep…there have been several episodes recently where he’s been awakened by nightmares so I know he is anxious too…
I’ll stay in touch…and thanks!
Why “Thank You” Lainy!!!!
I wrote to possibly help Shellina…so what a pleasant surprise to see your thoughtful note to me!!!
You must have read my mind…very concerned about the upcoming surgery! The surgeon said the operation will be 8+ hours…and the hospitalization will be 2-4 weeks if all goes well…The surgery consent papers state a mortality rate of 5% and a major complication rate of 40%…No wonder I am anxious!
The Liver Oncology Surgeon mentioned that the Anaesthesiologist will put an epidural in (for pain control) and this will stay in about 3 days. A feeding tube will also be placed directly into the small intestine…
Thank you for mentioning about the epidural in case we weren’t aware of it! It should definitely help with pain management.
I hope to update you all after March 18!
With appreciation,
~Judy~
Hi Shellina!
My husband’s situation is rather similar to that of your husband!
His severe generalized itching (pruritis) began in December 2012 and was followed eventually by jaundice. Blood tests showed elevated bilirubin levels and abnormal liver enzyme readings. A CT Scan revealed a stricture in the distal region of the common bile duct which explained the painless obstructive jaundice. An ERCP was attempted but failed. A subsequent PTC was successful and a plastic stent was placed (with external biliary drainage bag.). This alleviated the jaundice…at least temporarily. However, the stent became blocked a few weeks later and had to be replaced by PTC. During the various hospitalizations, 3 sets of biopsies were taken (between 6-9 samples.). Some of the samples were via biliary brushings during PTC (Interventional Radiologist) and others were tissue (by forceps) during Endoscopy with Ultrasound by the Gastroenterologist. Unfortunately, none of the biopsies confirmed cancer. All samples were “unreadable” or “inconclusive.” At least 4 Specialists all visualized the stricture during the intraductal ultrasound…and all agreed it looked like cancer. The Liver Oncology Surgeon has clinically diagnosed Cholangiocarcinoma based on the clinical picture, history, symptoms, CT Scan appearance, etc.etc. but a definitive, confirmatory diagnosis has not been possible. This apparently is not unusual with Cholangiocarcinoma – diagnosis is often a challenge! The Surgeon indicated they are about 97% sure it is cancer but the “proof” will not be available until more samples are tested at the Lab after extensive surgery. My husband is scheduled for a “pancreatoduodenectomy” (Whipple procedure) in just 5 days on March 18, 2013. He is feeling well since the last stent replacement so undergoing radical surgery (when not 100 % sure it is cancer) makes it even more difficult…
I can empathize with the questions you have and the uncertainty you are experiencing…
Please write again as I found responses to my initial questions last month very helpful from this wonderful, caring group!
Best wishes from the east coast of Canada all the way to you and your husband in California!
Warm regards,
~Judy~
What an amazing group of International individuals with a common bond! I deeply appreciate the replies from Percy, Lainy, Gavin, Pamela, Eli & Marion. Thank you all so much for your observations, very helpful information and kind, caring remarks! Your compassion and concern is palpable!
With heartfelt appreciation,
~Judy~
