Scar tissue in throat caused by radiation and chemo treatment

Posted by keith123 @keith123, Jan 22, 2019

Is there anything done to remove scar tissue so you can eat?

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@bea4me

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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So did you have the trach removed because of the positive affects of the stretching?

Thanks for your reply.

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The trach was removed after I awoke from a 2 month long deep coma which occured right after my 10 hr. esophageal surgery. Needed time to heal the esophagus before doing any stretchings.

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@bea4me

The trach was removed after I awoke from a 2 month long deep coma which occured right after my 10 hr. esophageal surgery. Needed time to heal the esophagus before doing any stretchings.

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Wow…2 months. I can't imagine what that does to one's body.

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Doctors had my death certificate ready to sign but thanks to my medical advocate who told them not to underestimate me, I survived. At first had a few memory issues, but with time that went away. I definitely was weak after 7 mos. in hospital beds with little PT. I was determined to move as much as I was able to gain some strength back after I returned home.

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