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What's recovery after distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy like?
Pancreatic Cancer | Last Active: Nov 25 9:09am | Replies (177)Comment receiving replies
I had an EUS biopsy. Dr had difficulty getting a good tissue sample. Results were inconclusive. Said they could perform a 2nd biopsy but odds of getting an accurate sample were not good due to location of tumor. A biopsy will be done post surgery. The tail of my pancreas is atrophied.
I’m spending this week cleaning the house and setting up my bedroom with what I think I’ll need;) Any suggestions for what I may like to have on hand?
Replies to "I had an EUS biopsy. Dr had difficulty getting a good tissue sample. Results were inconclusive...."
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I remember feeling terrified! My surgery was March 3. Similar to you, discovery of a MCN happened incidental to an ultrasound for another purpose. No symptoms. Open surgery because of the large mass (9 cm). Very thankful this was discovered.
Surgery on Friday, walking on Sunday, soft diet on Tuesday and discharged on Wednesday. As many have said, walking is good. Was discharged with a drain which seemed to give me more discomfort than the incision. After discharge, pain was managed with Tylenol. Today was the first day with no Tylenol.
Surgeon suggested that digestion may not be an issue since the pancreas was probably not working properly for a while because of the large mass. So far, he seems to be right. Small meals to start. Portion sizes are still smaller than pre-surgery....which is probably good anyway 🙂
Suggestions for what you might need:
(1) Ensure or some other supplement to get the calories and protein you need in the event you don't have much of an appetite.
(2) Shower chair. My daily shower helped me feel so much better.
(3) Gauze (4x4) if you are discharged with a drain.
(4) Rest.
Wishing you an uneventful surgery and a speedy recovery.