Effects of Aspirin After Oesophagectomy

[catlover50]

I take a daily dose of aspirin as a blood thinner as prescribed by the hospital, I have had an oesophagectomy. Does anyone have experience of this and whether the aspirin will damage the lining of the now elongated stomach or intestine.

[DavidP]

It makes sense that during the healing process the risk of bleeding would be higher, but you would have have received enoxaparin or similar anti-coagulant therapy post-surgery while in hospital. This is because the risk of clotting is high following surgery. If the hospital has prescribed aspirin for continuation of anticoagulation they would have taken into consideration the risks of clotting versus bleeding, and you are likely receiving higher dose aspirin. This is different to the reason I take low dose aspirin. I have taken low dose aspirin (75mg) starting about 3 months after my gastro-oesophajectomy in 2012. I have had the occasional break when experiencing the odd instance of slight bruising (I have noticed a greater tendency with knocks etc). The bleeding risk is there longer term but the other side of the coin is that several (caveat, retrospective and non-interventional) studies have shown that aspirin is associated with a notable reduction in the risk of recurrence of adenocarcinoma. Suggest you discuss with your oncologist who will know the data and be able to give you good advice. As I say there is a difference between the doses and intention of aspirin use.

[catlover50 in reply to DavidP]

Yes I wasn't very clear. The oesophagectomy was 3 years ago and not related to the aspirin taking. The aspirin was prescribed by the cardiology department. 75mg daily as a blood thinner.

[DavidP in reply to catlover50]

I would have thought then that risk of any effect on the junction is very low.

[catlover50 in reply to DavidP]

Thank you. I did mention it to my G.P. during my annual prescription review and he has prescribed Gastro resistant aspirin which has put my mind at rest somewhat.

[speakman]

Following chemotherapy in advance of my oesophagectomy almost 12 years ago, it was thought that it had resulted in damage to the blood supply in my right big toe. Indeed, it was felt that I might lose the toe. Thank goodness that didn't happen but as the result, I was prescribed a 75mg daily dose of aspirin and I have taken it ever since with no issues whatever.

[catlover50 in reply to speakman]

That is very reassuring to hear. Thank you for your advice.