← Return to NETs: Scheduled for small intestine resection: What to expect?

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@mbg20

I’m home now after surgery and 8 nights in hospital, mostly in the ICU. It was really tough. I have additional problems with blood pressure and atrial fibrillation which posed additional issues. Dr used an open incision and removed about a yard of small intestine, a baseball size secondary tumor in mesentary, 2 cm primary in small intestine, gall bladder and appendix. Some tumors left because they were too close around the aorta. I’m awaiting the biopsy results and will meet with Drs in 2 days. Glad now to be at home, going for small walks and eating small, low fiber, hi soluble foods, and waiting for digestive system to get back into balance. I’m taking a second lanreotide does in 3 days and hoping for fewer side effects than with first shot. Progress is generally upward with occasional setbacks. It’s helped to have bought a portable, raised toilet which puts less stress on that 8” incision. Also got a shower chair so didn’t have to stand in shower. And the other thing is we’re stocked up on chicken thighs and breasts to make mild chicken noodle soup eaten over mashed potatoes (potatoes have good nutrients and you can’t eat many other vegetables.) This meal is easy to make, digest and defrost when it’s mealtime. Ive also learned not to drop pain meds too early - less pain means more willingness to walk and walking really helps immensely to relieve bowel pain.

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Replies to "I’m home now after surgery and 8 nights in hospital, mostly in the ICU. It was..."

So good to hear from you, @mbg20. It sounds like your recovery has been very steady. That is a testament to the good work you have done with your diet and exercise plan. I'm glad to hear that you are able to control the pain with the use of the pain meds.

I see you have an appointment in two days. Will this be a follow up appointment with the surgeon?

mpg20, Wow, it sounds like you’ve been through the wringer. And now doing so well! It speaks to your strength and determination to take care of yourself and take control of your recovery.
I’ve had two surgeries since 2018 and the hardest by far was the second one when they removed 11” of my large intestine and appendix (I’d already lost 10” of my small intestine). I developed plural effusions so had breathing problems and looked like the Pillsbury Dough Boy. Once that resolved I dropped to 104 lbs - I’m only 5’ tall but it just made me look old. Anyway, the oncologist was on me to eat more protein. It helped the weight and energy level. So good to see you’re doing that, and figured out what works for you.
Best wishes as you continue to recover - it certainly sounds like you’re on the right road.