Ed just got back from the surgery this morning. The portacath is in on his right side next to the clavical just under the skin. It's a small triangle shape about the size of a 50 cent piece. All went well and he's just resting with an ice pack on it. Later they will put in the needle access which is good for 7 days and allows them access for everything in and out. Then every week they just change the pick needle and he doesn't have to get poked for blood and they can use it for the TPN, the chemo, etc. It can remain in for a year or more with monthly maintenance of just flushing it. He's feeling okay - had a pretty good night of rest with a couple of 2 hour chunks between all the interruptions.
Nurse just told us that his labs all look good today and his white cell count is good and responded well to the nupagen after chemo, so he may not need another nupagen injection today. That one they have to give in his belly, so it would be nice to have one less poke.
He's watching FOX news and resting. I'll check in with you all later this afternoon.
Ed, in your condition I bet you are looking forward to one MORE poke, if you know what I mean!
ReplyDeleteGet well buddy, love you - TC