Post cystectomy swelling

FormerMember
FormerMember
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Hello guys

Just looking for a little advice / reassurance. I had a cystectomy 3 weeks ago and have developed enlarged lymph nodes in my groins and now swelling inner part of tops of thighs. No pain but aching. My thought is this is just going to be lymph collection draining somewhere as they took nodes out of my pelvis when they stole my bladder. I’m not expecting any actual face to face review in the foreseeable future. Did anyone else have anything similar post op??

J x

  • Hello Josefena

    I had significant post cystectomy swelling caused by fluid retention, about 21kgs, that was aspirated and drained out after a few weeks while still in hospital, However, in your case, if this is a lymph fluid collection, it needs to be checked by your medical team. I recommend that you phone your urologist's or your surgeon's secretary to alert them and contact your CNS as well.

    CB.

    I may appear to be listening but in my head I'm all at sea. 

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to Crustybladder

    Hello CB

    thank you for your reply, I think I was just hoping I could sit on it and wait and see ... I’ll give the team a ring later today.

    J x

  • Hi Josefena,I tried to reply yesterday but there were some site problems.I hope you can get some advice about the swelling,it must be uncomfortable.It definitely needs checking.How are you feeling otherwise ? love Jane xx

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to winkers60

    Hello Jane

    ive spoken to my consultant and he’s happy it is just a lymph collection and should improve. But the best news is it’s all out and 17/17 lymph nodes negative so that’s fab.. The other thing I’ve found reassuring was it definitely needed to come out as there was extensive CIS and further tumours in the bladder. I am struggling with the bag tho’ heavy on my tummy and always seems full. I suppose time will help and letting my poor old tummy heal so it can carry the weight without moaning.

    thank you for asking

    Jx 

  • An all clear is the best news Josefena. Also to know that this was an essential procedure and you can hope to have many healthy years ahead. So glad for you. x

  • I’m delighted for you,what a relief.Your stomach should start feeling more comfortable soon.The first few weeks I found were the worst for bloating & discomfort.I hope the lymph swelling eases soon.The only swelling I had was in the abdomen and in my ankles.The ankles were ok by the time I was discharged.Take care,love Jane xx