Hi I'm new here

I had lobectomy 3 weeks ago. Had open thoractomy, middle lobe removed. First week was hard and painful but I had lots of pain relief. Scar is big and it still hurts but it’s getting better. I have pin and noddles around front part of the ribs and it feels strange. 
it was very scary but it’s better then I thought so don’t be scared. 

Thank you for responding.  I'm hoping to have key hole (VATS) for upper lobe so hope it won't be quite as bad.  Hope your recovery continues well.

Hi Niblet,

I had VATS upper right lobe about 8 weeks ago. I spent 6 days in hospital because of an infection and atrial fibrillation caused by the infection. That looked after me very well and I had little or no pain. Sleeping was a bit challenging and I was pretty happy to be home. They gave me all the medication I needed for a week with instructions to see my GP to have my stitches removed. The morphine didn’t give me constipation as I found out after a bit that another drug (for coughing) didn’t agree with me, sending me running to the toilet. It’s taken a while for my digestive system to return to near normal.

I made sure I took the pain killers as prescribed initially but having consulted my GP, I managed to leave myself a dose of morphine for the middle of the night. I bought a wedge pillow which helped to keep me propped up for the first week or so home. Sleeping was somewhat difficult initially. My GP prescribed me some fluoxetine to help me relax. I’m now sleeping so much better. I gradually came off the all the drugs and currently I’m taking paracetamol now and again. I do have some nerve discomfort round the front of my chest and I’m coughing more than I did before but all in all, I’m feeling much better than even two weeks ago. I’m breathless going up hill but generally I’m progressing.

I went to see my surgeon last week. He’s very pleased with my progress and said there was no trace of any spread. I’m going to see the oncology department tomorrow and I may be offered some chemo. 

I hope all goes well for you and you don’t have to wait too long for the procedure. The waiting (as always) for me is just the most difficult part of the process. Good luck xxx

Thank you so much for your helpful reply.  I'm glad things look positive for you and hope you keep on recovering well.

Thank you Niblet, I hope your procedure goes well. If you have any other questions you’re welcome to send me a private message. Good luck

Hi Niblet

i have only just been diagnosed and am waiting for an appointment to discuss my treatment plan, I need an operation to remove a nodule.  I too live in Greater  Manchester and have been offered the Prehab4cancer course so would also be interested to hear of other peoples experiences of this programme.

Good luck with your treatment.

my treatment