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Groin lymph node dissection melanoma reoccurence

Sarahlou43
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Unfortunately I found out the melanoma has returned. Stage 3 and located just in left groin lymph nodes. 

I have previously had wle and slnb and 1 years immunotherapy which finished exactly 1 year. 

I'm booked for groin lymph node dissection of just left side in 4 weeks time. I understand the op and what happens but I'd like some advice for post-op. What can I do to prepare? What things will be seful in hospital? I know lymphoedma is a strong possibility. How can I manage that?  Its all quite overwhelming and emotional getting my head around this again but I know I cope better when I know much as I can so I'm prepared. Any advice is welcome  Thank you  .

  • Hello Sarahlou43

    I'm sorry to hear that you've recently been told that your melanoma has returned and that this time around you will need a lymph node dissection. It's understandable that you are feeling concerned about your upcoming surgery and how this may impact you. 

    I'm going to tag in my reply as I know she has experience with this diagnosis and I'm sure will be able to offer you some advice and support from the perspective of someone who has been through this surgery. 

    You might also find it helpful to chat with one of our nurses. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information, and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Keep in touch Sarah and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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    Hi Sarah Lou,

    I have sent you a friend request. I have just broken my wrist so having problems typing. If you accept my request I can reply by pm otherwise it takes me ages to type on the forum using my left hand.

    Take care, Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

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    Sorry to hear your melanoma has returned and have to have surgery. I am in almost the same position as you and see the surgeon on Monday. I had a toe removed with melanoma 3 yrs ago, also 2 lymph nodes that were ok, now after a biopsy I fear the cancer has returned. I am scared of Lymphoedma and before I commit to any form of treatment I am intending to ask where else the cancer may have travelled to.

    I shall follow your post with interest and hope you get some helpful advice.

  • Offline in reply to Margndog

    Hi,

    I'm sorry to hear you think your mm has returned in your nodes. If the biopsy comes back positive they will arrange a scan to see if it's spread beyond the node(s) - the result will then guide the next steps. You will be offered adjuvant drug treatment and possibly a node clearance (some consultants prefer to see if the drug treatment will do the job, because of the side effects, like lymphoedema, from a node clearance). I've sent you a friend request in case you would like to chat by pm.

    Good luck and please let us know how you get on with your results,

    Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

  • Offline in reply to Margndog

    I'm so sorry your facing this also.  Yes good to ask lots of information. I have a very informative and patient surgeon who confirmed everything and run through the whole op and all side effects issues that may possibly arise. He showed me my scans so I knew there was no cancer elsewhere except in my groin. He also gave me lots of positive encouragement in saying I'm young (I'm not, I'm 46!) Fit healthy with no other issues and that I should recover well.  My biggest fear is also the lymphodema but I've spent some time researching and printing off massages to drain fluid, compression clothing, techniques to manage it and local lymphoedma clinics to contact. So I feel armed and ready. I've heard you can be referred to lymphodema clinic at 6 weeks post surgery  so I fully intend on getting all the help I need to get through this and hopefully out the other side..... again!!!  I too will keep an eye on your posts and hope you stay well. Xxx

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