Right colon surgery and recovery afterwards

Hello Gillyj,    

I was diagnosed with a strage 3 large tumour cancer in the caecum colon near the appendix. Surgery in April involved removing the removal of a short length of the small intestine at the caecum, the entire caecum including the appendix and a short length of the transverse colon, as well as quite a large number of lymph nodes as a precaution. after a few weeks of recuperation, I started Capox chemotherapy (2 drugs, oxaliplatin by infusion on first day of each 3-wek cycle and Capecitabine tablets for the next two wekse of each cycle. I have recently completed my 6th cycle and chemo has been stopped as a CT scan showed it could be stopped, with a further check in 3 months. My drug dosages were at a significantly reduced dosage because pre-chemo test had shown that I had a 50% DPD deficiency which makes me less tolerant of those chemo drugs. My main side effects have been a tendency to constipation (this can be easily helped with gentle medication) and very cold feet and lower legs which cannot be warmed, from the 2nd cycle. This appears to be an uncommon side effect of the chemo drugs i.e. seemingly an uncommon form of neuropathy. I very much hope the cold feet syndrome will reduce in the weeks ahead now that I am no longer on chemo. I was lucky not to have suffered from diarrhea and only very very slight nausea occasionally

You do not say at what stage your cancer is at and whether you will need chemo or other treatment post-surgery. Obviously, your colon surgeon and your oncologist will advise and guide you. From my experience, post the surgery I had as described above, it is best stay in the comfort of home with gentle exercising/walking and a reasonably careful diet as you will be advised. Most important, I think, to have small meals, and to chew and chew thoroughly each mouthful, and to drink plenty of water. Going to St Lucia 10 or 11 wekks after the surgery may be a little ambitious but be guided by your surgeon and oncologist. Beware of the sun if you are having chemo. Sun cream, hat and shade at all times!

All the best on the 11th and remember that things will gradually get better day by day post op. 

Thank you Anbou. I am stage 2 the tumour is about 4.5cm and it is contained in the cecum. As I said my surgeon is removing the whole of the colon on the right side plus the lymph nodes and will attach the small intestine to it. As far as chemo is concerned it is unlikely but until he has the report back after the operation he can’t say. 
I have spoken to my care nurse today and I agree with you. I think it is better to cancel my holiday. But thank you for sharing with me it had really helped. I hope you continue to improve