ADVISE WANTED ON OPERATION - Putting a metal rod in leg

Hi Everyone,

Just looking for some advice.  My Mum has breast cancer in her bones and she has been offered to have an pre-emptive operation to put a metal rod in the hollow of her leg to stabalise it in case she breaks it later or incase when the cancer returns (unpauses) that her leg gets to weak to hold her weight.  She doesn't know what to do for the best whether to have the operation or not.  She is concerned about extra pain and complications arising from the operation plus time spent in hospital and not being able to go to the toilet on her own because of her broken leg.  

What I am asking is anyone in a similar situation and has had this operation and what did you go through.  I would appreciate any information from anyone on this subject that can give us some more information.  Thank you in advance for any replies.

  • Hi Midibear, 

    I'm sorry to hear that Mum has been unwell and is now facing making this decision. It's understandable that she may be concerned about complications and recovery. 

    I've had a look through the forum but I'm unable to find any previous posts mentioning this kind of surgery. I wondered if Mum, or you, might find it helpful to have a chat with one of our team of nurses through and talk through some of your concerns. They are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator

  • Hi Midbear

    A friend of ours has leukemia and had a steel rod put in his leg recently. It was to help his leg keep strong to take his weight. He is now in a wheel chair whilst it heals, then he'll be able to walk again. His next stage is stem cell treatment. He has injections as part of his treatment as well. He is recovering well from his recent leg operation.