ranchbara
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I also wanted to mention that my husband had radiation and chemo before his resection 3 years ago, including both gemzar and xeloda, then 2 chemo tx after. Now, his cc has presented again, but only after 36 great months, and he is now 73&1/2. After surgery we found out that he had ‘perineural’ involvement and they told us it would recur at some point. I have asked him if he would do it again (chemo) and he says absolutely. It has given us 3 more years together, our kids are 3 years older etc. We are looking at more surgery next week, and if the dr feels that chemo will help, we will most likely do it again. Best of luck, keep fighting.
What about developing diabetes after the whipple, is that pretty common? Even though I am a nurse I have much to learn about recover. I don’t mean to anticipate things but the more I know the more I can ask questions.
yes, I agree not to over-worry about high alk phos after surgery or an invasive treatment they expect it to go up. Keep good thoughts.
I’m thinking surgery is the answer because his ampulla of vater looks like a big angry ulcer – they actually let me observe the EGD because I am a nurse, and the ulcer is obstructing the ampulla of vater (such an exotic sounding name), interfering with stomach emptying and absorption of nutrients, causing lots of pain, and is a risk for perforation and bleeding. I think the surgery is the way to go because of how sick he is right now. How long was your husband in the hospital after whipple…I am worried because of the previous roux en y and if that will complicate things. We have to travel 150 miles to Salt Lake City, so I will need to stay there for the duration and trying to plan for it. I am so sorry for your husband’s passing, as I went thru postings I saw that, and so sorry. My husband emulates your motto..he has a great attitude, even as much pain as he is in, he never complains and has an upbeat attitude.
I firmly believe every patient needs a strong and educated advocate. Usually a family member. I am a nurse so it is probably easier for me, but a non-healthcare person can also be just as educated about a particular condition. When my husband had his resection 3 years ago either myself or one of my two adult children were in the room with him every minute. Question everything, what is that med, why is he getting it, what is his temp, bp, etc. What is planned for today. After discharge, it is even more important because you are the only one watching out to make sure things are getting done. Get copies of every lab and scan report, keep them in a book and take them to every appt with you. Write down what the dr. says and keep that in the book. Drs and hospitals have hundreds of patients, and the drs do not keep track of whether they have seen a report, if it comes in their nurse or med asst will put it in front of them, but you have to make sure they actually get it and see it. I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to make sure your loved one has an informed advocate with them at each appt.
