I was on the phone several times with the doctors' offices today. We will be heading up to Rochester this Monday, January 10th for a meeting with the surgical team. Discussing the tentative surgical plans with the oncologist could leave one wondering what will be left in Matt's abdomen following surgery. For the weight conscious among us, this has to be some weight-loss of an operation!
We are told that the tumor in the pancreas is quite large and the plan is to remove the entire pancreas. Being that the pancreas is what controls the blood sugar levels, removing the pancreas will automatically make Matt an insulin-dependent diabetic, but that is something we can live with. The spleen needs removing as well as the 3 tumors on the liver which, thankfully, are all confined to one lobe. The portal vein leaving the liver is affected and will need reconstructing. The oncologist wasn't clear as to whether this would take place in one surgery or if Matt will be facing multiple surgeries. I'm sure this, along with other issues, will be clarified at Monday's appointment.
Glad to hear that there is hope with the surgery. You guys are in our prayers. Remember, we're available if you need us. Love you guys.
ReplyDeleteLisa Mather