› Forums › General Melanoma Community › Lymphadenectomy
- This topic has 21 replies, 6 voices, and was last updated 8 years, 10 months ago by
jennunicorn.
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- August 13, 2016 at 1:09 pm
Hello,I hope you are all winning your battles against melanoma. My husband is having a lymphadenectomy on Monday. It was supposed to be only the superficial nodes but the CT scan yesterday showed that all of the deep nodes are enlarged quite big so they have decided to remove those as well. Has anyone here had their deep nodes affected? How was the surgery and recovery? Did you stay in the hospital over night? He used to be stage 2b but now with this news hes stage 3c.
Thanks
Janis
- Replies
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- August 13, 2016 at 1:38 pm
Based on the information in your profile, it sounds like Shane is having his groin nodes removed. I'm not sure of the recovery time because I had all the axillary nodes removed from my left arm pit.
But, lymph node removal from the groin carries a higher risk of lymphedema than axillary node removal does. With groin lymph node removal, gravity is not your friend. 🙁 In a nutshell, lymphedema is swelling of a limb in which the flow of lymph fluid is compromised. In Shane's case, the lymph nodes that normally flush fluids from his leg will be gone, increasing the risk of swelling in that leg. The body does make up for it — but some bodies just don't do it as efficiently as others, hence the swelling.
If you haven't done so already, I recommend you seek out a physical therapist with expertise in lymphedema, specifically lymphedema of the leg. Your surgeon or melanoma oncologist may be able to provide a referral. This person will teach you what to look out for and how to do manage it to keep the swelling down; they also will discuss compression garments with you and measure you for one. My neighbor had lymph nodes removed from the groin years ago and she's doing fine. She does wear a compression garment on her affected leg, but overall, lymphedema has had lttle effect on her quality of life.
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- August 13, 2016 at 1:38 pm
Based on the information in your profile, it sounds like Shane is having his groin nodes removed. I'm not sure of the recovery time because I had all the axillary nodes removed from my left arm pit.
But, lymph node removal from the groin carries a higher risk of lymphedema than axillary node removal does. With groin lymph node removal, gravity is not your friend. 🙁 In a nutshell, lymphedema is swelling of a limb in which the flow of lymph fluid is compromised. In Shane's case, the lymph nodes that normally flush fluids from his leg will be gone, increasing the risk of swelling in that leg. The body does make up for it — but some bodies just don't do it as efficiently as others, hence the swelling.
If you haven't done so already, I recommend you seek out a physical therapist with expertise in lymphedema, specifically lymphedema of the leg. Your surgeon or melanoma oncologist may be able to provide a referral. This person will teach you what to look out for and how to do manage it to keep the swelling down; they also will discuss compression garments with you and measure you for one. My neighbor had lymph nodes removed from the groin years ago and she's doing fine. She does wear a compression garment on her affected leg, but overall, lymphedema has had lttle effect on her quality of life.
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- August 13, 2016 at 1:38 pm
Based on the information in your profile, it sounds like Shane is having his groin nodes removed. I'm not sure of the recovery time because I had all the axillary nodes removed from my left arm pit.
But, lymph node removal from the groin carries a higher risk of lymphedema than axillary node removal does. With groin lymph node removal, gravity is not your friend. 🙁 In a nutshell, lymphedema is swelling of a limb in which the flow of lymph fluid is compromised. In Shane's case, the lymph nodes that normally flush fluids from his leg will be gone, increasing the risk of swelling in that leg. The body does make up for it — but some bodies just don't do it as efficiently as others, hence the swelling.
If you haven't done so already, I recommend you seek out a physical therapist with expertise in lymphedema, specifically lymphedema of the leg. Your surgeon or melanoma oncologist may be able to provide a referral. This person will teach you what to look out for and how to do manage it to keep the swelling down; they also will discuss compression garments with you and measure you for one. My neighbor had lymph nodes removed from the groin years ago and she's doing fine. She does wear a compression garment on her affected leg, but overall, lymphedema has had lttle effect on her quality of life.
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- August 13, 2016 at 1:48 pm
Thanks for taking the time to respond. We haven’t heard anything from the doctor yet on seeing a lymphadema specialist but hoping to get a referral on Monday. -
- August 13, 2016 at 1:48 pm
Thanks for taking the time to respond. We haven’t heard anything from the doctor yet on seeing a lymphadema specialist but hoping to get a referral on Monday. -
- August 13, 2016 at 1:48 pm
Thanks for taking the time to respond. We haven’t heard anything from the doctor yet on seeing a lymphadema specialist but hoping to get a referral on Monday. -
- August 13, 2016 at 2:52 pm
Hi, I had a similar procedure in December. They removed the deeper pelvic nodes laparospically, four ports – tiny incisions- done by a colorectal surgeon- then the plastics surgeon did an open surgery to get the inguinal nodes- leaving me with two suction drains through small stab wounds. Was in the operating theatre for over 3 hrs. Had inflating boots on my lower legs- to prevent DVT- was given fairly hefty pain relief initially then put on to a patient controlled analgesia pump which was taken away the following day as the surgeon wanted me up and mobilising with help from the physio.. Was discharged with drains in place and instructions for measuring the output after 2 nights as in patient. but it looks like stays for this procedure can be much longer depending on if they let you home with the drains in. One drain blocked after 1 week – when the blood thinning meds stopped – and the other roughly 2 weeks post surgery- when I started with problems withlymphoedema and a seroma ( Fluid collection in the dead space where the lymph nodes used to be- under the tissue flap. Healing was good, but the seroma was rather persistent- in spite being drained. However- seroma area went hard and my body has reabsorbed the majority over the last 7 months-but it has been slow .The Lymphoedema got worse in May following a bout of cellulitis- but I was warned that this was a possible side effect of the procedure. The drains are a nuisance- but in the light of my experience I would leave them in as long as they are productive as the seroma and swelling only started when they were removed.
Would try and have some constipation remedies ready at home as the pain relief and anesthesia seems to slow things down.
My pelvic nodes did not light up on the pet scan- but as the initial inguinal node was over 2.5cm the surgeon advised that microscopic traces of the tumour were likely to be in the pelvis and this was the course he recommended. In the end we got the histology report after 14 days and there was one node in the pelvis enlarged and positivefor melanoma- so it was more than microscopic in my case.
I think this procedure can vary for different folk depending on if the do the sartorious muscle switch-to protect arteries in case of infection and if you are overweight- which increases the lymphoedema risk.
Best of luck with your op
Deb
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- August 13, 2016 at 2:52 pm
Hi, I had a similar procedure in December. They removed the deeper pelvic nodes laparospically, four ports – tiny incisions- done by a colorectal surgeon- then the plastics surgeon did an open surgery to get the inguinal nodes- leaving me with two suction drains through small stab wounds. Was in the operating theatre for over 3 hrs. Had inflating boots on my lower legs- to prevent DVT- was given fairly hefty pain relief initially then put on to a patient controlled analgesia pump which was taken away the following day as the surgeon wanted me up and mobilising with help from the physio.. Was discharged with drains in place and instructions for measuring the output after 2 nights as in patient. but it looks like stays for this procedure can be much longer depending on if they let you home with the drains in. One drain blocked after 1 week – when the blood thinning meds stopped – and the other roughly 2 weeks post surgery- when I started with problems withlymphoedema and a seroma ( Fluid collection in the dead space where the lymph nodes used to be- under the tissue flap. Healing was good, but the seroma was rather persistent- in spite being drained. However- seroma area went hard and my body has reabsorbed the majority over the last 7 months-but it has been slow .The Lymphoedema got worse in May following a bout of cellulitis- but I was warned that this was a possible side effect of the procedure. The drains are a nuisance- but in the light of my experience I would leave them in as long as they are productive as the seroma and swelling only started when they were removed.
Would try and have some constipation remedies ready at home as the pain relief and anesthesia seems to slow things down.
My pelvic nodes did not light up on the pet scan- but as the initial inguinal node was over 2.5cm the surgeon advised that microscopic traces of the tumour were likely to be in the pelvis and this was the course he recommended. In the end we got the histology report after 14 days and there was one node in the pelvis enlarged and positivefor melanoma- so it was more than microscopic in my case.
I think this procedure can vary for different folk depending on if the do the sartorious muscle switch-to protect arteries in case of infection and if you are overweight- which increases the lymphoedema risk.
Best of luck with your op
Deb
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- August 13, 2016 at 2:52 pm
Hi, I had a similar procedure in December. They removed the deeper pelvic nodes laparospically, four ports – tiny incisions- done by a colorectal surgeon- then the plastics surgeon did an open surgery to get the inguinal nodes- leaving me with two suction drains through small stab wounds. Was in the operating theatre for over 3 hrs. Had inflating boots on my lower legs- to prevent DVT- was given fairly hefty pain relief initially then put on to a patient controlled analgesia pump which was taken away the following day as the surgeon wanted me up and mobilising with help from the physio.. Was discharged with drains in place and instructions for measuring the output after 2 nights as in patient. but it looks like stays for this procedure can be much longer depending on if they let you home with the drains in. One drain blocked after 1 week – when the blood thinning meds stopped – and the other roughly 2 weeks post surgery- when I started with problems withlymphoedema and a seroma ( Fluid collection in the dead space where the lymph nodes used to be- under the tissue flap. Healing was good, but the seroma was rather persistent- in spite being drained. However- seroma area went hard and my body has reabsorbed the majority over the last 7 months-but it has been slow .The Lymphoedema got worse in May following a bout of cellulitis- but I was warned that this was a possible side effect of the procedure. The drains are a nuisance- but in the light of my experience I would leave them in as long as they are productive as the seroma and swelling only started when they were removed.
Would try and have some constipation remedies ready at home as the pain relief and anesthesia seems to slow things down.
My pelvic nodes did not light up on the pet scan- but as the initial inguinal node was over 2.5cm the surgeon advised that microscopic traces of the tumour were likely to be in the pelvis and this was the course he recommended. In the end we got the histology report after 14 days and there was one node in the pelvis enlarged and positivefor melanoma- so it was more than microscopic in my case.
I think this procedure can vary for different folk depending on if the do the sartorious muscle switch-to protect arteries in case of infection and if you are overweight- which increases the lymphoedema risk.
Best of luck with your op
Deb
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- August 14, 2016 at 4:13 am
Hi Janis.
My husband was diagnosed 3c and had a total dissection under his right arm extending partly into chest – they removed a total of 4o nodes so it was deep and extensive.
I second the referral to the lymphodema physical therapist – if possible it may be helpful for you to also go to the appointment. I learned how to massage my husband's arm and side to help with the flow of fluid and alleviate some of his swelling. The PT can also measure for and order compression garments that can be worn to help with lymphodema.
My husband did have significant nerve involvement in his incision – he had some serious nerve pain (stabbing and shocking) during his recovery. The good news is that it gets better with time. My friend is a naturopathic healer and she recommended lions mane mushroom supplements (they help with nerve regeneration). Of course, you should consult with your doctor before taking any additional supplements.
My husband is almost exactly 1 year out from his procedure and all pain is gone with some lingering sensitivity near scar site. He has some swelling which increases with the heat of summer or his air travel for work, but it is manageable and I massage him when necessary.
Wishing your husband NED status and wishing you the best in supporting him in this battle.
Rebecca
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- August 14, 2016 at 4:13 am
Hi Janis.
My husband was diagnosed 3c and had a total dissection under his right arm extending partly into chest – they removed a total of 4o nodes so it was deep and extensive.
I second the referral to the lymphodema physical therapist – if possible it may be helpful for you to also go to the appointment. I learned how to massage my husband's arm and side to help with the flow of fluid and alleviate some of his swelling. The PT can also measure for and order compression garments that can be worn to help with lymphodema.
My husband did have significant nerve involvement in his incision – he had some serious nerve pain (stabbing and shocking) during his recovery. The good news is that it gets better with time. My friend is a naturopathic healer and she recommended lions mane mushroom supplements (they help with nerve regeneration). Of course, you should consult with your doctor before taking any additional supplements.
My husband is almost exactly 1 year out from his procedure and all pain is gone with some lingering sensitivity near scar site. He has some swelling which increases with the heat of summer or his air travel for work, but it is manageable and I massage him when necessary.
Wishing your husband NED status and wishing you the best in supporting him in this battle.
Rebecca
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- August 14, 2016 at 4:13 am
Hi Janis.
My husband was diagnosed 3c and had a total dissection under his right arm extending partly into chest – they removed a total of 4o nodes so it was deep and extensive.
I second the referral to the lymphodema physical therapist – if possible it may be helpful for you to also go to the appointment. I learned how to massage my husband's arm and side to help with the flow of fluid and alleviate some of his swelling. The PT can also measure for and order compression garments that can be worn to help with lymphodema.
My husband did have significant nerve involvement in his incision – he had some serious nerve pain (stabbing and shocking) during his recovery. The good news is that it gets better with time. My friend is a naturopathic healer and she recommended lions mane mushroom supplements (they help with nerve regeneration). Of course, you should consult with your doctor before taking any additional supplements.
My husband is almost exactly 1 year out from his procedure and all pain is gone with some lingering sensitivity near scar site. He has some swelling which increases with the heat of summer or his air travel for work, but it is manageable and I massage him when necessary.
Wishing your husband NED status and wishing you the best in supporting him in this battle.
Rebecca
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- August 14, 2016 at 12:43 pm
Thanks for replying. I’m really nervous about his surgery and his recovery time. He is being referred to the S1404 I think it’s called trail after he heals up. Praying for NED for him and all of you. -
- August 14, 2016 at 12:43 pm
Thanks for replying. I’m really nervous about his surgery and his recovery time. He is being referred to the S1404 I think it’s called trail after he heals up. Praying for NED for him and all of you. -
- August 14, 2016 at 12:43 pm
Thanks for replying. I’m really nervous about his surgery and his recovery time. He is being referred to the S1404 I think it’s called trail after he heals up. Praying for NED for him and all of you.
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- August 14, 2016 at 2:34 pm
I had a neck dissection and the experience is much different than for the groin. But even though someone mentioned it earlier, I want to re-iterate that the whole constipation issue after a major surgery is nothing to trifle with. Get him started on senna before surgery and make sure they are giving him a stool softener at the hospital. Have senna, mild laxative and even dulcolax suppositories on hand at home. The anesthesia, narcotics, relative immobility, decreased appetite all set him up for this problem. And I can only imagine that a major operation in the groing area will complicate things too.
Sorry for the topic, but I am a nurse and I deal with this all the time post op in the hospital.
Hope everything goes the very best for him and that his news is as good as possible.
Peggy
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- August 14, 2016 at 4:47 pm
I had a groin SLNB, one of my nodes taken was deep in my pelvic area. For about 5 days after surgery it felt like someone had punched me really hard in my lower abdomen and my muscles and stuff felt really weird…. basically, when I had to go #2 I was super greatful for having stool softeners because I had no ability to push anything out. I am sure he will get stool softeners, but just double check that comes with the pain meds, and senna works great too. I can only imagine if there was more nodes taken from deep in my pelvic area that feeling of not being able to push very well would last a bit longer than 5 days.
WIshing him all the best and an easy recovery.
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- August 14, 2016 at 4:47 pm
I had a groin SLNB, one of my nodes taken was deep in my pelvic area. For about 5 days after surgery it felt like someone had punched me really hard in my lower abdomen and my muscles and stuff felt really weird…. basically, when I had to go #2 I was super greatful for having stool softeners because I had no ability to push anything out. I am sure he will get stool softeners, but just double check that comes with the pain meds, and senna works great too. I can only imagine if there was more nodes taken from deep in my pelvic area that feeling of not being able to push very well would last a bit longer than 5 days.
WIshing him all the best and an easy recovery.
-
- August 14, 2016 at 4:47 pm
I had a groin SLNB, one of my nodes taken was deep in my pelvic area. For about 5 days after surgery it felt like someone had punched me really hard in my lower abdomen and my muscles and stuff felt really weird…. basically, when I had to go #2 I was super greatful for having stool softeners because I had no ability to push anything out. I am sure he will get stool softeners, but just double check that comes with the pain meds, and senna works great too. I can only imagine if there was more nodes taken from deep in my pelvic area that feeling of not being able to push very well would last a bit longer than 5 days.
WIshing him all the best and an easy recovery.
-
- August 14, 2016 at 2:34 pm
I had a neck dissection and the experience is much different than for the groin. But even though someone mentioned it earlier, I want to re-iterate that the whole constipation issue after a major surgery is nothing to trifle with. Get him started on senna before surgery and make sure they are giving him a stool softener at the hospital. Have senna, mild laxative and even dulcolax suppositories on hand at home. The anesthesia, narcotics, relative immobility, decreased appetite all set him up for this problem. And I can only imagine that a major operation in the groing area will complicate things too.
Sorry for the topic, but I am a nurse and I deal with this all the time post op in the hospital.
Hope everything goes the very best for him and that his news is as good as possible.
Peggy
-
- August 14, 2016 at 2:34 pm
I had a neck dissection and the experience is much different than for the groin. But even though someone mentioned it earlier, I want to re-iterate that the whole constipation issue after a major surgery is nothing to trifle with. Get him started on senna before surgery and make sure they are giving him a stool softener at the hospital. Have senna, mild laxative and even dulcolax suppositories on hand at home. The anesthesia, narcotics, relative immobility, decreased appetite all set him up for this problem. And I can only imagine that a major operation in the groing area will complicate things too.
Sorry for the topic, but I am a nurse and I deal with this all the time post op in the hospital.
Hope everything goes the very best for him and that his news is as good as possible.
Peggy
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