Hi,
Have had a lower right collapsed lung since at least 2012 and finally this year after being in hospital for gallblader removal surgery they refered me to a lung specialst to investigate.
X-rays, CT/PET scans and a bronchoscope later they discovered this was infact due to a Carcinoid tumour which is blocking to air tube to the lower lobe. They have decided the best course of action would be to remove the entire lobe to reduce the chance of any re-occurance in the future.
I had an apoointment with the surgeon this morning who has said the tumour is at the very top of the tube for the lower lobe so it is very likely they will have to remove the middle lobe too as he doesn't see a way to cut away enough tissue around the tumour without taking away the pipe for the mid lobe. He is also concerned as PET scan showed a couple of bright spots outwish the tumour area so would be beneficial to take away more tissue.
Also this means they are unable to do VATS and will need to be open surgery
Although he is confident taking away this much will remove all cancerous tissue he said they will remove lymph glands to be tested post surgery and make the decision on further chemo treatment based on that.
Just looking to hear other peoples experiences on the pain levels post surgery and also the recovery in the weeks and moths that followed? When would I expect to be back at work (an office) or is it really just a case of everyones recover is different?
Thanks in advance
Hi and welcome to the Online Community, although I am sorry to see you finding us and so sorry to hear about the challenges you are having.
Any cancer diagnosis brings a lot of stress on you and the family but talking with people who are on the same journey can help a lot and will reduce the whirlwind wind that is rushing in your head.
My cancer journey was rather different from yours but I see that you have joined our Lung Cancer forum where you will connect with people who understand the journey you are on. You can ask the folks questions about treatments, what to expect and how to get through this period of time.
Follow the link and go to the 'Start a Discussion' tab just under the main group name. Set up your own Discussion and introduce yourself to the group - you could just copy an paste what you have in this first post. Or you could hit the ‘Discussions’ tab and look through the various threads.
You may find our various Macmillan Support Line Services to be helpful - call them on 0808 808 00 00 This free service covers Emotional Support, Practical Information. Clinical Information, Financial Support and Work Guidance mostly open 8.00 to 8.00 but check the link.
We also have our ‘Ask an Expert’section where you can post questions to our mostly Volunteer Experts but please allow 2 working days to get a reply.
Our Online Information and Support Sectionis a good place to find information covering cancer diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers.
Talking to people face to face can help a lot so check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support Groups in your area or a Maggie’s Centre as these folks are amazing.
When you feel up to it try putting some information in your profile. This really helps others when answering. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. Just click on YOUR username, select 'Edit Profile'. Put as much or as little in your profile and you can amend it at any time - you can see members profiles by hitting our forum names.
All the best.
