Re: back from Esophagectomy

[Guest guest]

Wow, what a story! You have been through the mill. That sounds as bad as heart surgery. One of my church members had a 14 hour surgery for cancer in the area of the esophagus. It was quite an experience. Will you be able to resume a "normal" life? Congratulations of coming through the surgery.

From: achalasia [mailto:achalasia ] On Behalf Of ltmikespdSent: Friday, September 22, 2006 10:26 PMachalasia Subject: back from Esophagectomy

Hello all:As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone). For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will be glad to give you the "blow by blow" account so you'll know to expect. My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it. The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1 in my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the 2 chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb. The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards. I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most unpleasant after surgery thing I had).I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in my abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left of that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression bandage that comes off tomorrow.While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now on full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I start the post Ectomy diet of "softs" - ice cream, mashed potatos, pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it progresses.Mike

[Guest guest]

:

Thanks for the reply. Yes it was quite a " journey " but not quite as

bad as heart surgery, at least they didn't have to open the front

chest (crack the sternum, etc). Yes, I should have normal life after

about 4 weeks insofar as eating. It will take longer to physically

recover from the surgery but I should soon be okay there too. Thanks

again - mike

>

> Wow, what a story! You have been through the mill. That sounds as

bad as

> heart surgery. One of my church members had a 14 hour surgery for

cancer in

> the area of the esophagus. It was quite an experience. Will you be

able to

> resume a " normal " life? Congratulations of coming through the

surgery.

>

> _____

>

> From: achalasia [mailto:achalasia ]

On Behalf

> Of ltmikespd

> Sent: Friday, September 22, 2006 10:26 PM

> achalasia

> Subject: back from Esophagectomy

>

>

>

> Hello all:

>

> As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on

> the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some

> side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone).

>

> For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I

will

> be glad to give you the " blow by blow " account so you'll know to

> expect.

>

> My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to

> some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that

he

> didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of

> my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so

> distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my

> stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also

> advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined

> with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it.

>

> The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1

in

> my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the

2

> chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far

as

> I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb.

>

> The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with

> the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the

> surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate

afterwards.

> I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of

> you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the

> surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid

on

> it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most

> unpleasant after surgery thing I had).

>

> I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in

my

> abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left

of

> that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under

> my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in

> my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression

> bandage that comes off tomorrow.

>

> While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on

tube

> feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now

on

> full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next

I

> start the post Ectomy diet of " softs " - ice cream, mashed potatos,

> pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the

> tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal

repairs

> to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.

>

> Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it

> progresses.

>

> Mike

>

[Guest guest]

Mike, it is so good to hear that you're home and

doing so well. We are all glad that you seem to

be doing this well after such an ordeal.

Of course we want to know all the details and how

you're doing as you progress. As you know already

a number here are facing this surgery and none of

know but what that may be in our future. The more

we know the more prepared we'll be. It's been said

before, "knowledge is power".

Good luck and best wishes for your continued

recovery.

Maggie

Alabama

[Guest guest]

Mike

I’m so glad that everything is going as well as can be

expected right now. You keep up your strength and let us know how you

progress. Thanks for some of the information from your procedure!!

C Warren

Co-Founder

www.achalasia.us

From: achalasia

[mailto:achalasia ] On Behalf Of ltmikespd

Sent: Saturday, September 23, 2006 1:26 AM

achalasia

Subject: back from Esophagectomy

Hello all:

As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on

the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some

side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone).

For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will

be glad to give you the " blow by blow " account so you'll know to

expect.

My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to

some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he

didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of

my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so

distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my

stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also

advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined

with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it.

The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1 in

my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the 2

chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as

I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb.

The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with

the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the

surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards.

I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of

you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the

surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on

it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most

unpleasant after surgery thing I had).

I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in my

abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left of

that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under

my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in

my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression

bandage that comes off tomorrow.

While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube

feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now on

full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I

start the post Ectomy diet of " softs " - ice cream, mashed potatos,

pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the

tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs

to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.

Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it

progresses.

Mike

[Guest guest]

Mike I am glad that you are now at home and recovering. Keep taking it easy and take your time trying to get back to normal food. in Georgialtmikespd <ltmikespd@...> wrote: Hello all:As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone). For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will be

glad to give you the "blow by blow" account so you'll know to expect. My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it. The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1 in my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the 2 chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb. The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with

the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards. I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most unpleasant after surgery thing I had).I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in my abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left of that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression bandage that comes off tomorrow.While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital

and I am now on full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I start the post Ectomy diet of "softs" - ice cream, mashed potatos, pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it progresses.Mike <FONT face="comic sans ms" color=#ff0000 size=5> in Georgia </FONT><IMG src=" ">

Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less.

[Guest guest]

Dear Mike, I thought it was very caring of you to share all these details with us. You have had a hard time of it, but now you are on the right side of it all. I wish you the very best of recoveries. Keep smiling Mike, Lots of love from Ann in England XX ltmikespd <ltmikespd@...> wrote: Hello all:As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone). For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will be glad to give you the "blow by blow" account so you'll know to expect. My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also advised that my scar

tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it. The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1 in my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the 2 chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb. The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards. I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most unpleasant after surgery thing I had).I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical

incision in my abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left of that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression bandage that comes off tomorrow.While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now on full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I start the post Ectomy diet of "softs" - ice cream, mashed potatos, pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it progresses.Mike

The all-new goes wherever you go - free your email address from your Internet provider.

[Guest guest]

Congratulations on making it through the surgery. Sounds like you are on your way. I bet you are glad to be home. Good luck with everything!ltmikespd <ltmikespd@...> wrote: Hello all: As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone). For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will be glad to give you the "blow by blow"

account so you'll know to expect. My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it. The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1 in my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the 2 chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb. The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with the lungs. The

right one has to be partially deflated from the surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards. I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most unpleasant after surgery thing I had). I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in my abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left of that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression bandage that comes off tomorrow. While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital

and I am now on full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I start the post Ectomy diet of "softs" - ice cream, mashed potatos, pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM. Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it progresses. Mike

All-new - Fire up a more powerful email and get things done faster.

[Guest guest]

Hi Mike.

So glad to hear all went well for you. I

am one of the esophagectomy group members who are still trying to decide what

to do and is terrified of the surgery.

While I say that, I am also very realistic

that it is a part of my future because I am pretty much beyond hope of anything

else making a big enough difference for me.

You have no idea how comforting it is to

read success stories like yours – it actually doesn’t sound half

bad from the way you have described things. Granted, no walk in the park, but

definitely manageable.

A few questions – forgive me for not

recalling, but how old are you? You definitely sound like things are going

good, even though they ran into some things they weren’t expecting.

Any other details you are willing to share

would be greatly appreciated.

Are you in a lot of pain now? What kind of

pain management did they give you when you left the hospital?

How long are they expecting you to be out

from work?

I am truly happy for you that all is well,

and I can’t wait to hear how things progress once you are eating more

solid foods.

Looking forward to your updates and hoping

you get the rest and comfort you deserve,

in NY

From: achalasia [mailto:achalasia ] On Behalf Of ltmikespd

Sent: Saturday, September 23, 2006

1:26 AM

achalasia

Subject: back from

Esophagectomy

Hello all:

As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on

the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some

side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone).

For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will

be glad to give you the " blow by blow " account so you'll know to

expect.

My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to

some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he

didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of

my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so

distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my

stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also

advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined

with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it.

The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1 in

my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the 2

chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as

I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb.

The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with

the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the

surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards.

I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of

you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the

surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on

it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most

unpleasant after surgery thing I had).

I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in my

abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left of

that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under

my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in

my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression

bandage that comes off tomorrow.

While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube

feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now on

full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I

start the post Ectomy diet of " softs " - ice cream, mashed potatos,

pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the

tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs

to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.

Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it

progresses.

Mike

[Guest guest]

Hey Brother Mike:

Please keep us posted on your progress. On what side of the pond are you?

From: achalasia [mailto:achalasia ] On Behalf Of ltmikespdSent: Friday, September 22, 2006 10:44 PMachalasia Subject: Re: back from Esophagectomy

:Thanks for the reply. Yes it was quite a "journey" but not quite as bad as heart surgery, at least they didn't have to open the front chest (crack the sternum, etc). Yes, I should have normal life after about 4 weeks insofar as eating. It will take longer to physically recover from the surgery but I should soon be okay there too. Thanks again - mike>> Wow, what a story! You have been through the mill. That sounds as bad as> heart surgery. One of my church members had a 14 hour surgery for cancer in> the area of the esophagus. It was quite an experience. Will you be able to> resume a "normal" life? Congratulations of coming through the surgery.> > _____ > > From: achalasia [mailto:achalasia ] On Behalf> Of ltmikespd> Sent: Friday, September 22, 2006 10:26 PM> achalasia > Subject: back from Esophagectomy> > > > Hello all:> > As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on > the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some > side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone). > > For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will > be glad to give you the "blow by blow" account so you'll know to > expect. > > My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to > some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he > didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of > my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so > distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my > stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also > advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined > with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it. > > The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1 in > my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the 2 > chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as > I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb. > > The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with > the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the > surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards. > I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of > you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the > surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on > it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most > unpleasant after surgery thing I had).> > I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in my > abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left of > that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under > my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in > my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression > bandage that comes off tomorrow.> > While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube > feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now on > full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I > start the post Ectomy diet of "softs" - ice cream, mashed potatos, > pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the > tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs > to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.> > Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it > progresses.> > Mike>

[Guest guest]

My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can !

Bud or ?

> Hello all:

>

> As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on

> the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some

> side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone).

>

> For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I

will

> be glad to give you the " blow by blow " account so you'll know to

> expect.

>

> My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to

> some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that

he

> didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of

> my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so

> distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my

> stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also

> advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined

> with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it.

>

> The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1

in

> my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the

2

> chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far

as

> I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb.

>

> The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with

> the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the

> surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate

afterwards.

> I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of

> you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the

> surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid

on

> it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most

> unpleasant after surgery thing I had).

>

> I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in

my

> abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left

of

> that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under

> my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in

> my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression

> bandage that comes off tomorrow.

>

> While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on

tube

> feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now

on

> full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next

I

> start the post Ectomy diet of " softs " - ice cream, mashed potatos,

> pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the

> tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal

repairs

> to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.

>

> Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it

> progresses.

>

> Mike

>

>

>

>

>

>

> ---------------------------------

> The all-new goes wherever you go - free your email

address from your Internet provider.

>

[Guest guest]

Mike,

It is just so great to hear from you. You E-mail has given me a real optomism, thanks.

Blimey, I hadn't thought of the Myotomy causing adhesions to any other organs. That will be interesting. I have already been told my oesophagus is probably stuck to my heart so I don't relish the thought that it can also be stuck to the liver...I'll be on the operating table for days.

So glad to read that all seems to be going well. The text books all say the biggest complications are related to the lungs and I guess your advice about walking is solid, so I will start tomorrow (I am not a very fit guy).

Do you remember much about the first couple of days? I think this is the part I am most worried about. I have no idea why.

Really glad your home safe and sound. I bet you can't wait to try the soft diet.

Congratulations.

STEVE

back from Esophagectomy

Hello all:As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone) . For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will be glad to give you the "blow by blow" account so you'll know to expect. My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it. The main thing for all of this was pain

management, and UVA is #1 in my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the 2 chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb. The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards. I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most unpleasant after surgery thing I had).I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in my abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left of that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under my

right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression bandage that comes off tomorrow.While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now on full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I start the post Ectomy diet of "softs" - ice cream, mashed potatos, pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it progresses.Mike

[Guest guest]

Hey :

So far, not too bad. The pain is fairly non-existent and I quit the

pain meds the second day home - didn't like the side effects. The

biggest things now are: little/no appetite, lack of sensation on the

right side (between incisions). and still a little problem getting

lung strength back. The Doc says all that should pass in the coming

weeks. The J-tube is a real pain too. Don't need it for feedings but

still have to flush it 3x per day.

It's only been 12 days since the surgery so I shouldn't expect too

much too soon. The lying around the house is the biggest killer

(like to be on the move). I'll check in every other day or so.

Oh, and I'm from " the colonies " - Virginia to be exact.

Mike

> >

> > Wow, what a story! You have been through the mill. That sounds

as

> bad as

> > heart surgery. One of my church members had a 14 hour surgery

for

> cancer in

> > the area of the esophagus. It was quite an experience. Will you

be

> able to

> > resume a " normal " life? Congratulations of coming through the

> surgery.

> >

> > _____

> >

> > From: achalasia@grou <mailto:achalasia%40>

ps.com

> [mailto:achalasia@grou <mailto:achalasia%40>

ps.com]

> On Behalf

> > Of ltmikespd

> > Sent: Friday, September 22, 2006 10:26 PM

> > achalasia@grou <mailto:achalasia%40>

ps.com

> > Subject: back from Esophagectomy

> >

> >

> >

> > Hello all:

> >

> > As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA

on

> > the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay,

some

> > side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone).

> >

> > For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I

> will

> > be glad to give you the " blow by blow " account so you'll know to

> > expect.

> >

> > My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due

to

> > some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery

that

> he

> > didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results

of

> > my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so

> > distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my

> > stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He

also

> > advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown

interthwined

> > with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it.

> >

> > The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is

#1

> in

> > my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to

the

> 2

> > chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far

> as

> > I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb.

> >

> > The main complications after surgery that I encountered were

with

> > the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the

> > surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate

> afterwards.

> > I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those

of

> > you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the

> > surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had

fluid

> on

> > it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most

> > unpleasant after surgery thing I had).

> >

> > I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in

> my

> > abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the

left

> of

> > that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision

under

> > my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes

in

> > my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression

> > bandage that comes off tomorrow.

> >

> > While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on

> tube

> > feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am

now

> on

> > full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next

next

> I

> > start the post Ectomy diet of " softs " - ice cream, mashed

potatos,

> > pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have

the

> > tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal

> repairs

> > to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.

> >

> > Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it

> > progresses.

> >

> > Mike

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Dear Mike, Your account of your Esophagectomy bespeaks a courageous spirit! I commend you for all you have gone through and for all the hard work you are doing to get back up and on with everything. I am very impressed. I had a VAT Hellers in late January and I was sitting around for about two weeks, feeling really wimpy and even crying from time to time. I have no doubt that if I were facing what you've been going through, I'd be snarking at the news, sleeping hugely, and ordering ice cream (probably shouting the order!!!) from delivery places, and, in mass quantities, too. May your recuperation be smooth, may your swallowing be EXCELLENT, FANTASTIC, and GREAT, and may your physical pain be so minimal as to mimic nothing

more than a stray plucked eyebrow hair. Happy recovering to everyone out there! This is some annoying thing, this A. of ours! All best, Deborah, still hanging at the beach..........

[Guest guest]

Steve:

Good to hear from you.

My lower E was crowding other organs due to the size. The

main " adhesion " part was with old scar tissue from my Myotomy in '76

growing into the liver. If this is your 1st procedure, you shouldn't

have any problems there.

Insofar as the first couple of days, yes I remember most of it. If

you're worried about the pain, etc I have one word :EPIDURAL. If

they offer you that, take it!!! It goes in your back much higher

than what women get during childbirth. It's not too painful to be

inserted but it saves you a TON of pain after the surgery. Mine

stayed in 5 days and my right side between the incisions was so numb

that when they gave me stomach injections, they gave them on that

side and I could watch they do it but didn't feel a thing.

I've had more discomfort since coming home than during the hospital

stay (7 days). I do mean " discomfort " I really havn't experienced

any real pain.

Once the lung issues clear I feel I'll be a lot off because I can

get more active, which will increase my appetite, etc. The J-tube is

a bother - doesn't hurt just a pain to deal with.

Talk to you again soon.

Mike

>

> Mike,

>

> It is just so great to hear from you. You E-mail has given me a

real optomism, thanks.

>

> Blimey, I hadn't thought of the Myotomy causing adhesions to any

other organs. That will be interesting. I have already been told

my oesophagus is probably stuck to my heart so I don't relish the

thought that it can also be stuck to the liver...I'll be on the

operating table for days.

>

> So glad to read that all seems to be going well. The text books

all say the biggest complications are related to the lungs and I

guess your advice about walking is solid, so I will start tomorrow

(I am not a very fit guy).

>

> Do you remember much about the first couple of days? I think this

is the part I am most worried about. I have no idea why.

>

> Really glad your home safe and sound. I bet you can't wait to try

the soft diet.

>

> Congratulations.

>

> STEVE

>

>

> back from Esophagectomy

>

> Hello all:

>

> As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on

> the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some

> side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone) .

>

> For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I

will

> be glad to give you the " blow by blow " account so you'll know to

> expect.

>

> My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to

> some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that

he

> didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of

> my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so

> distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my

> stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also

> advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined

> with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it.

>

> The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1

in

> my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the

2

> chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far

as

> I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb.

>

> The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with

> the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the

> surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate

afterwards.

> I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of

> you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the

> surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid

on

> it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most

> unpleasant after surgery thing I had).

>

> I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in

my

> abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left

of

> that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under

> my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in

> my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression

> bandage that comes off tomorrow.

>

> While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on

tube

> feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now

on

> full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next

I

> start the post Ectomy diet of " softs " - ice cream, mashed potatos,

> pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the

> tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal

repairs

> to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.

>

> Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it

> progresses.

>

> Mike

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Steve,

Your positive attitude continues to rub off on me. If I was living on Ensure and had the problems you are presently having, I would be on line right behind you to have the esophagectomy done.

BTW, you made the following statement in your last message:

"At least everyone will know what an oesophagectomy is....I hope."

Maybe yes, maybe no. Never underestimate "stupidity" or to use a more appropriate word, "ignorance." It would not surprise me in the least if someone, unaware of the gastric-pullup procedure, says to you, "I don't understand how food gets from your throat to your stomach if you have no oesophagus."

In a message dated 9/27/2006 3:18:21 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, lennoxsteve@... writes:

Mike,

Thanks, not my first procedure. I too have had a Hellers. Yeh, I have the overcrowding issue too. My heart has been slightly pushed aside by my oesophagus and that gives me a weird ECG trace. So i'm expecting beer can sized oesophagus.

WOW, your hospital stay is so short. We get 10 days here in the UK. Pleased to hear that you are well enough to go home after just 7 though. As for the first few days. It's not so much the pain I am worried about. Actually, I don't think I am worried about pain at all. It's more the getting out of bed and all them tubes. I had a naso gastric tube this years for a dilatation that needed to be aborted and hated it. It was like a garden hose sitting in my throat. So, it's more the discomfort of the first few days really.

I bet it feels odd to have fluid go straight down, no stopping. No backing up. Right now I am jealous, I can't wait (!).

I had one of those irritating encounters with a locum GP today. My GP was away and the guy I was seeing clearly never heard of Achalasia. I told him I was living on Ensure and had been for the past 6 months with very very little solid food (alwasy mushed up). He tutted at me and told me this was not a good way of feeding myself and I should eat normal food!!!! I explained I couldn't eat and that's why my oesophagus was being removed in November and he still didn't really grasp it. I get very fed up of encountering professionals who have never heard of our disease. At least everyone will know what an oesophagectomy is....I hope.

You take care

STEVE

back from Esophagectomy> > Hello all:> > As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on > the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some > side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone) . > > For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will > be glad to give you the "blow by blow" account so you'll know to > expect. > > My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to > some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he > didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of > my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so > distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my > stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also > advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined > with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it. > > The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1 in > my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the 2 > chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as > I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb. > > The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with > the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the > surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards. > I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of > you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the > surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on > it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most > unpleasant after surgery thing I had).> > I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in my > abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left of > that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under > my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in > my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression > bandage that comes off tomorrow.> > While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube > feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now on > full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I > start the post Ectomy diet of "softs" - ice cream, mashed potatos, > pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the > tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs > to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.> > Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it > progresses.> > Mike>

[Guest guest]

Mike,

Thanks, not my first procedure. I too have had a Hellers. Yeh, I have the overcrowding issue too. My heart has been slightly pushed aside by my oesophagus and that gives me a weird ECG trace. So i'm expecting beer can sized oesophagus.

WOW, your hospital stay is so short. We get 10 days here in the UK. Pleased to hear that you are well enough to go home after just 7 though. As for the first few days. It's not so much the pain I am worried about. Actually, I don't think I am worried about pain at all. It's more the getting out of bed and all them tubes. I had a naso gastric tube this years for a dilatation that needed to be aborted and hated it. It was like a garden hose sitting in my throat. So, it's more the discomfort of the first few days really.

I bet it feels odd to have fluid go straight down, no stopping. No backing up. Right now I am jealous, I can't wait (!).

I had one of those irritating encounters with a locum GP today. My GP was away and the guy I was seeing clearly never heard of Achalasia. I told him I was living on Ensure and had been for the past 6 months with very very little solid food (alwasy mushed up). He tutted at me and told me this was not a good way of feeding myself and I should eat normal food!!!! I explained I couldn't eat and that's why my oesophagus was being removed in November and he still didn't really grasp it. I get very fed up of encountering professionals who have never heard of our disease. At least everyone will know what an oesophagectomy is....I hope.

You take care

STEVE

back from Esophagectomy> > Hello all:> > As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on > the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some

> side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone) . > > For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will > be glad to give you the "blow by blow" account so you'll know to > expect. > > My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to > some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he > didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of > my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so > distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my > stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also > advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined > with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it. > > The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1 in > my books there. The epidural was

in my back for 5 days due to the 2 > chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as > I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb. > > The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with > the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the > surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards. > I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of > you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the > surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on > it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most > unpleasant after surgery thing I had).> > I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in my > abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left of > that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large

cresant shaped incision under > my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in > my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression > bandage that comes off tomorrow.> > While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube > feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now on > full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I > start the post Ectomy diet of "softs" - ice cream, mashed potatos, > pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the > tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs > to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.> > Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it > progresses.> > Mike>

[Guest guest]

Steve:

Your situation sounds similar to mine. Unfortunately you will still

have the nasalgastic tube, although it didn't seem as bad this time

as when I had the myotomy. It is in 4 days, and yes the removal

wasn't pleasant but it was over quick.

If they use the same procedure on you (Ivor-) you'll also have

two chest tubes in your right side (1 post and 1 anterior). They are

hooked to two drainage boxes that sit on the floor beside you. I

referred to them as " the twins. " Moving around in bed, etc wasn't

too bad and when they walk you they just hook them to the push along

cart with everything else. Ditto on the cathiter (which is not too

bad). They took my cath out after about 4 days as well. My chest

tubes came out on the 6th day. It doesn't hurt at all because they

leave you on the epidural until the tubes are out.

Now at home the chest incision feels almost like the tubes are still

attached, strange sensation. All and all you should be able to move

around fairly well. Try getting used to sleeping at an angle. Not

sitting up, but about 35 degrees. That will be the most comfortable

with the tubes. Take care -

Mike

> >

> > Mike,

> >

> > It is just so great to hear from you. You E-mail has given me a

> real optomism, thanks.

> >

> > Blimey, I hadn't thought of the Myotomy causing adhesions to any

> other organs. That will be interesting. I have already been told

> my oesophagus is probably stuck to my heart so I don't relish the

> thought that it can also be stuck to the liver...I'll be on the

> operating table for days.

> >

> > So glad to read that all seems to be going well. The text books

> all say the biggest complications are related to the lungs and I

> guess your advice about walking is solid, so I will start tomorrow

> (I am not a very fit guy).

> >

> > Do you remember much about the first couple of days? I think

this

> is the part I am most worried about. I have no idea why.

> >

> > Really glad your home safe and sound. I bet you can't wait to

try

> the soft diet.

> >

> > Congratulations.

> >

> > STEVE

> >

> >

> > back from Esophagectomy

> >

> > Hello all:

> >

> > As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA

on

> > the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay,

some

> > side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone) .

> >

> > For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I

> will

> > be glad to give you the " blow by blow " account so you'll know to

> > expect.

> >

> > My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due

to

> > some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery

that

> he

> > didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results

of

> > my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so

> > distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my

> > stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He

also

> > advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown

interthwined

> > with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it.

> >

> > The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is

#1

> in

> > my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to

the

> 2

> > chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far

> as

> > I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb.

> >

> > The main complications after surgery that I encountered were

with

> > the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the

> > surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate

> afterwards.

> > I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those

of

> > you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the

> > surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had

fluid

> on

> > it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most

> > unpleasant after surgery thing I had).

> >

> > I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in

> my

> > abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the

left

> of

> > that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision

under

> > my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes

in

> > my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression

> > bandage that comes off tomorrow.

> >

> > While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on

> tube

> > feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am

now

> on

> > full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next

next

> I

> > start the post Ectomy diet of " softs " - ice cream, mashed

potatos,

> > pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have

the

> > tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal

> repairs

> > to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.

> >

> > Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it

> > progresses.

> >

> > Mike

> >

>

[Guest guest]

,

I agree with you. Several people have looked at me very perplexed when I have told them what is going to happen. This is after I have explained what an oesophagus actually is!!!

Thanks for the comment regarding positive attitude. I am getting there.

STEVE

back from Esophagectomy> > Hello all:> > As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on

> the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some > side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone) . > > For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I will > be glad to give you the "blow by blow" account so you'll know to > expect. > > My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to > some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that he > didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of > my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so > distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my > stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also > advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined > with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it. > > The main thing for all of this was pain

management, and UVA is #1 in > my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the 2 > chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far as > I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb. > > The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with > the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the > surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate afterwards. > I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of > you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the > surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid on > it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most > unpleasant after surgery thing I had).> > I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in my > abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding

tube) to the left of > that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped incision under > my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in > my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression > bandage that comes off tomorrow.> > While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on tube > feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now on > full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next I > start the post Ectomy diet of "softs" - ice cream, mashed potatos, > pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the > tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal repairs > to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.> > Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it > progresses.> >

Mike>

[Guest guest]

Hey Mike,

How is it going? All is well I hope. We do sound similar. Even our age (I go into hospital 42 and come out 43). Except I am having the trans hiatal approach not Ivor . But, I have been warned I may end up with both approached depending how stuck the oesophagus is.

Please tell me that hiddeous stuck feeling has gone. I foolishly had some mashed potato last night. I knew I shouldn't but I couldn't resist it...it has been with me all day just stuck in my chest. I hate the feeling. Some how liquid manages to get past it (thank goodness). Anyway, be honest...I presume that feeling has gone. But has it been replaced with any other undesirable feeling?

Do you know if they cut your vegus nerve as part of the procedure. I have been told mine will probably be cut. Thst'a the bit that goes to the bowels, just wondering if you still have yours? If not....any effects?

Keep it up.

STEVE

back from Esophagectomy> > > > Hello all:> > > > As many of you may recall, I was scheduled for an Ectomy at UVA on > > the 14th. I just returned home on the 21st. I am doing okay, some > > side effects - espcially the pain meds (oxycondone) . > > > > For those of you facing this procedure (, Steve, etc) I > will > > be glad to give you the "blow by blow" account so you'll know to > >

expect. > > > > My procedure lasted 7 1/2 hours instead of the predicted 5 due to > > some complications. My doctor told my wife after the surgery that > he > > didn't know how any food was getting to my stomach. The results of > > my myotomy from '76 were still there but the E above it was so > > distorted that he stated he couldn't even get a tube down to my > > stomach. My lower E was about the diameter of a beer can. He also > > advised that my scar tissue from my myotomy had grown interthwined > > with my liver, etc and he had to take much longer to remove it. > > > > The main thing for all of this was pain management, and UVA is #1 > in > > my books there. The epidural was in my back for 5 days due to the > 2 > > chest tubes left in my right side. The epidural is A MUST as far > as

> > I'm concerned. It kept my whole chest cavity numb. > > > > The main complications after surgery that I encountered were with > > the lungs. The right one has to be partially deflated from the > > surgery and the tubes and mine didn't want to reinflate > afterwards. > > I'm still a little short of breath from time to time now. Those of > > you going for this need to do a lot of walking, etc before the > > surgery to keep those lungs in shape. My left lung also had fluid > on > > it, which required draining 400cc of fluids (probably the most > > unpleasant after surgery thing I had).> > > > I'm recouping at home now. I have the usual vertical incision in > my > > abdomen (about 34 staples), the j-tube (feeding tube) to the left > of > > that (comes out in 4 weeks), a large cresant shaped

incision under > > my right arm up to my back shoulder, and two nickel sized holes in > > my right side from the tubes. They are sealed with a compression > > bandage that comes off tomorrow.> > > > While I have the j-tube it's just as a precaution. I am not on > tube > > feedings. The doctor had me on those in the hospital and I am now > on > > full liquids for a week (broth, milkshakes, jello, etc). Next next > I > > start the post Ectomy diet of "softs" - ice cream, mashed potatos, > > pasta, moist fish, etc. I stay on that until I go back to have the > > tube removed in 4 weeks. This is just to allow the internal > repairs > > to heal. I can say that everything eaten now is NO PROBLEM.> > > > Anyone who wants more info give me a shout. I'll update as it > > progresses.>

> > > Mike> >>

[Guest guest]

Deborah,

Impossible to answer. You are quite right, many (most) live a full life never needing the oesophagectomy. The majority of people on this board for example.

I often wonder if my postings cause distress to others who may not want to hear the end stage stories and I did post this question back some time ago and suggested us oesophagectomy people clearly label our postings so that people can skip over them. I think most of our postings do have that in the title. I am sorry if we have given you some extra worries. I do wonder if in seeking help from others I have actually caused distress to others too. Apologies if this is the case. But I think in all honesty I would have liked to have known this could happen right from the start. I only found this group in february and I only found out that Achalasia could result in an oesophagectomy in March.

All the best

STEVE

Re: back from Esophagectomy

Dear Steve and Mike,

This Ectomy thingie is beginning to get into my brain, so, I've got

a question for you, for everyone here:

How many years are the norm. between having a Heller's and

having a Esophagectomy?

Big question, and, prob. many answers, including the idea that

not everyone will proceed right up to the Ectomy. But, for you two

gents, would you mind refreshing me on this one?

Oh, my. I am glad that you are both getting better but I am

also sending sympathies over the surgeries and the recuperation times,

etc.

The only other thing I want to say is, I'M GLAD ICE CREAM IS

A SOFT FOOD.

all best, Deborah

All new "The new Interface is stunning in its simplicity and ease of use." - PC Magazine

[Guest guest]

Steve,

As another member of our esophagectomy

group, I certainly don’t think that our postings should cause distress to

others, but rather educate them on what could potentially be their future. I

don’t mean that to sound cruel, but if I had know 16 years ago what I

know now, I may not be facing this major decision right now.

Granted, that will never be known, and

even if I had the proper treatment all these years and the necessary regular

follow up I could still be in this position.

However, I think all of our talk about the

esophagectomy and different doctors we have dealt with and how we got to where

we are is all very valuable information that should be shared with the rest of

the group. I like to think of our misfortune with this

disease/disorder/condition (notice me covering my bases on that one – let’s

not re-dispute that one) as something that can hopefully benefit others who

aren’t as advanced as us. Maybe making others think and freaking them out

a bit is exactly what they need to become better self-advocates and fight for

the treatment options they deserve.

in NY

From: achalasia [mailto:achalasia ] On Behalf Of Steve Lennox

Sent: Thursday, October 05, 2006

5:45 PM

achalasia

Subject: Re: Re: back

from Esophagectomy

Deborah,

Impossible to answer. You are quite right, many (most) live a

full life never needing the oesophagectomy. The majority of people on

this board for example.

I often wonder if my postings cause distress to others who may not want

to hear the end stage stories and I did post this question back some time ago

and suggested us oesophagectomy people clearly label our postings so that

people can skip over them. I think most of our postings do have that in

the title. I am sorry if we have given you some extra worries. I do

wonder if in seeking help from others I have actually caused distress

to others too. Apologies if this is the case. But I think in all

honesty I would have liked to have known this could happen right from the start.

I only found this group in february and I only found out that Achalasia could

result in an oesophagectomy in March.

All the best

STEVE

Re: back from Esophagectomy

Dear Steve and Mike,

This

Ectomy thingie is beginning to get into my brain, so, I've got

a question for you, for everyone here:

How

many years are the norm. between having a Heller's and

having a Esophagectomy?

Big

question, and, prob. many answers, including the idea that

not everyone will proceed right up to the Ectomy. But, for you

two

gents, would you mind refreshing me on this one?

Oh,

my. I am glad that you are both getting better but I am

also sending sympathies over the surgeries and the recuperation times,

etc.

The only

other thing I want to say is, I'M GLAD ICE CREAM IS

A SOFT FOOD.

all best,

Deborah

All

new " The new Interface is stunning in its simplicity and

ease of use. " - PC Magazine

[Guest guest]

I agree. I have gotten a lot out of the posts by the Eectomy folks. 's

story has made

me see that I am doing things that he mentions having done (eating too fast...).

Now I am

trying to eat much more slowly and chew a lot and drink even more than I was. I

am on the

beginning of the dilation road, so hearing the stories of folks farther along is

helping me

to understand what i need to do to prevent the dilation of my E. So thanks and

keep the

posts coming.

dayna

>

> Steve,

>

> As another member of our esophagectomy group, I certainly don't think that

> our postings should cause distress to others, but rather educate them on

> what could potentially be their future. I don't mean that to sound cruel,

> but if I had know 16 years ago what I know now, I may not be facing this

> major decision right now.

>

> Granted, that will never be known, and even if I had the proper treatment

> all these years and the necessary regular follow up I could still be in this

> position.

>

> However, I think all of our talk about the esophagectomy and different

> doctors we have dealt with and how we got to where we are is all very

> valuable information that should be shared with the rest of the group. I

> like to think of our misfortune with this disease/disorder/condition (notice

> me covering my bases on that one - let's not re-dispute that one) as

> something that can hopefully benefit others who aren't as advanced as us.

> Maybe making others think and freaking them out a bit is exactly what they

> need to become better self-advocates and fight for the treatment options

> they deserve.

>

>

>

> in NY

>

>

>

> _____

>

> From: achalasia [mailto:achalasia ] On Behalf

> Of Steve Lennox

> Sent: Thursday, October 05, 2006 5:45 PM

> achalasia

> Subject: Re: Re: back from Esophagectomy

>

>

>

> Deborah,

>

>

>

> Impossible to answer. You are quite right, many (most) live a full life

> never needing the oesophagectomy. The majority of people on this board for

> example.

>

>

>

> I often wonder if my postings cause distress to others who may not want to

> hear the end stage stories and I did post this question back some time ago

> and suggested us oesophagectomy people clearly label our postings so that

> people can skip over them. I think most of our postings do have that in the

> title. I am sorry if we have given you some extra worries. I do wonder if

> in seeking help from others I have actually caused distress to others too.

> Apologies if this is the case. But I think in all honesty I would have

> liked to have known this could happen right from the start. I only found

> this group in february and I only found out that Achalasia could result in

> an oesophagectomy in March.

>

>

>

> All the best

>

>

>

> STEVE

>

> Re: back from Esophagectomy

>

> Dear Steve and Mike,

>

>

>

> This Ectomy thingie is beginning to get into my brain, so, I've

> got

>

> a question for you, for everyone here:

>

>

>

> How many years are the norm. between having a Heller's and

>

> having a Esophagectomy?

>

>

>

> Big question, and, prob. many answers, including the idea that

>

> not everyone will proceed right up to the Ectomy. But, for you two

>

> gents, would you mind refreshing me on this one?

>

>

>

> Oh, my. I am glad that you are both getting better but I am

>

> also sending sympathies over the surgeries and the recuperation times,

>

> etc.

>

> The only other thing I want to say is, I'M GLAD ICE CREAM IS

>

> A SOFT FOOD.

>

>

>

> all best, Deborah

>

>

>

>

>

> _____

>

> All

> <http://us.rd./mail/uk/taglines/default/nowyoucan/pc_mag/*http:/us.

> rd./evt=40565/*http:/uk.docs./nowyoucan.html> new

> Mail " The new Interface is stunning in its simplicity and ease of use. " - PC

> Magazine

>