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Surgery in shoulder with edema & arthritis
I have had lymphedema and arthritis since 1991. I had 6-7 cancerous lymph nodes removed. Later - another 55 nodes removed in various places. In 1996 I had a glenohumeral joint in my right shoulder with a metal anchor within the greater tuberisity. Through time, the pain has increased and now the shoulder is frozen. I was told, it’s a 30 minute surgery to get the movement back in the shoulder and told that the missing lymph nodes are not a problem. My concern is the lymphedema getting much worse and the pain continuing.
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@waterwheel7 This is a dilemma, because I am pretty sure post-cancer lymphedema is outside the experience of most shoulder surgeons.
There are now specially trained Nurses, Physical & Occupational Therapists who specialize in post-surgical lymphedema management. A referral to one of them would be the best way to get answers.
Do you still have contact with your old surgeon? If not, contact your nearest hospital with a comprehensive cancer treatment center for advice on finding help.
Thank you for your help. I contacted my original surgeon three years ago. He told me to be tough. I looked into the hospital’s network in the Chicago area for someone who specialized in lymphedema. The one person that central scheduling found was a printing error. Last year I went to an OT in the system. She would only work on my arm despite my complaint of swelling in my back and trunk. My oncologist told me to have the surgery and if I have any problems they will deal with it later. I have an appointment with a surgeon recommended by the original surgeon May 1st. Now legs + feet swelling.