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Scar tissue in throat caused by radiation and chemo treatment
Head & Neck Cancer | Last Active: Feb 8 3:22pm | Replies (101)Comment receiving replies
I had stage 4 esophageal cancer as well. I'm suffering from scar tissue issues and have been living with a trach for 6 months.My doctor has told me it's permanent...without even suggesting any alternatives. I also have a feeding tube and am currently only allowed thick liquidy substances.
I have been reading about oesophagus stretching. Is it on-going process? What has it been like for you?
I am not going to throw in the towel until I have explored other options. I don't believe any doctor has the ability to dictate an absolute.
Replies to "I had stage 4 esophageal cancer as well. I'm suffering from scar tissue issues and have..."
So far I've had 5 stretchings since my Stage 4 esophageal surgery. They are very helpful. At first the benefit of being able to swallow easier wasn't too great but got much better with each stretching. I actually went 9 months between stretchings recently. It's a godsend. Done under light sedation (Propofol usually) so recovery is good. I hope you can find alternatives to the trach - living with a trach is not good. I had one for the 2 mo. I was in a coma after my surgery. I've dealt with many health issues in my life and I am always open to new ideas and new doctors if need be. I need docs who think outside the box & really listen to your needs. It could mean seeing other doctors till you get resolutions. I wish you good luck with that. It is doable!
Betty
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I've got throat cancer and multiple myeloma since 2019. I had radiation, chemp, neck dissection, more chemo, more radiation and immunotherapy. I had a feeding tube for 15 months and esophagus stretching after my frst round of radiation/chemo-about 8 gtimes-it helped, but I still had the feeding tube. The second round of radiation/chemo/Keytruda in
2021 didn't work as needed . My breathing was labored and I needed a trache. I had and have the same question about its permanence. I've accepted it-I can't swim, but don't need a CPAP any more either. It is a distinguishing cosmetic feature-good and bad. Trache maintenance isn't as burdensome as it may seem, but neither is my breathing. I can run up steps, walk long distances, golf and do anything on land. let me know if yu want to know more of my experiencce. The thought of a trache revolted me at first, but that's what it took-end of story.