Deb's GYN oncologist recommended we see a radiologist about the cyst. We met with a radiologist Monday and he suggested that she have a catheter inserted into the lymphocele (aka cyst, aka fluid sac) and allow it to drain completely. Once it is drained, they will insert beta iodine or alcohol into the sac with hopes to "scar it down" which means to collapse it and dry it up so that it cannot collect fluid any more. This process may take 1-2 weeks or longer and requires visits to the radiologist every couple days to have the alcohol injected.
Thankfully Deb's friend Linda has been visiting for the week and has been able to help out with David while we meet medical appointments. On Wednesday Deb went to St Mark's to have the lymphocele drained and the catheter installed. All went well but they had to insert the catheter through the main muscle in her lower back so she was in a lot of pain the first 24 hours. The pain has eased up but it's difficult to sit, stand up and walk since the muscle where the catheter is is connected to the muscle that runs in the front of the hip and groin area. She has had to take pain meds the first 48 hours which causes constipation ...which in turn causes pain in the abdomen...a vicious circle. So now she is not taking pain meds so that the bowels can return to "normal". The pain of the catheter in the muscle is quite bothersome and limits her activity.
The catheter will stay inserted until the lymphocele is completely scarred down. She had one beta iodine (?) injection Friday and will return again on Wednesday for another injection. We are praying that the catheter can be removed Wednesday so we are asking for you to please pray with us. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
