Ivor Lewis Oesophagectomy - post surgery

[Skidds60]

I am a 60 yr old woman who had 3/4 of her oesophagus and the top of my stomach removed. This was a 9 hour surgery, and from all accounts…I am now cancer free. The margins are clear and so too 11 lymph nodes. 🙂

I am now 24 days post surgery, after spending 3 days in ICU and 14 days total in hospital. I continue to be peg fed overnight for 12 hours, I am only able to eat pureed and soft foods currently. I find it very difficult to enjoy food as it gets stuck in my throat, from having those 2 large nasty pipes down my nose. I feel that my throat is shredded. It is a learning process for me now to graze throughout the day. 

I was wondering if anyone has had this same procedure and if so, how are they fairing? My chest and back are still numb, breathing can be shallow so I must remind myself to deep breathe. When did you start to feel ‘normal’ again, or at least your new normal? 

I appreciate your response. X

[Anonymous]

Hi @Skidds60 , 

I just wanted to acknowledge your post and say welcome to our online Community. Thank you so much for trusting us with your journey. It certainly sounds like it has been an extremely difficult month and the cancer has taken a lot from you, both physically and mentally. While the surgery was much needed, it has taken a toll on you physically also. 

How have you been fairing emotionally and mentally since your surgery? I'm mindful you asked about others experiences with this surgery and I will leave this for the community to answer, but if you feel up to talking on the phone, the clinical team may be able to answer some of your recovery questions on 13 11 20. 

I'm really looking forward to hearing from you and how your recovery is going. 

Take care, 
Erin CC NSW.