Radical surgery in older lady

[Vinney52]

My mum is a very fit lady of 83 with no other health conditions except this awful cancer - stage 4a. She is on chemo and they are talking to her about major surgery involving 3 specialists - gynae, bowel and gastro. They describe it as a 'big' operation with a long recovery period, and have told her she must decide whether to go for it. Such a difficult decision to make for someone at this age although they are happy to proceed. I would be interested to hear about older ladies going through this procedure to help with her decision.

Thank you so much in advance!

[EmmPet]

Hello Vinney

I had radical surgery for stage 4 peritoneal cancer on the 6th of July. I am 79. I’m addition to the debunking procedure, the surgeon found a mass on my large bowel which he was able to remove.I think general fitness is more important than age in years. I trust your Mum does well, whatever she decides xxxx

[lesleysage]

Hello Vinney52 & Mum, you can ask for a second opinion from Professor Christina Fotopoulou (London) or maybe from Prof Jayson at the Christie NHS Trust in Manchester? If I understand correctly, it’s not only the skill of the surgeons that matters but also the level of kit in the operating theatre.

Ovacome does two information leaflets on Surgery (check their website) which maybe helpful. Like a few others on this site, I was lucky enough to ask for a second opinion from Prof Christina in 2013 after I was told by Addenbrookes that surgery was too risky due to a high mortality from the surgery I’d need.

My GP’s advice had always been, “Your job is to build healthy cells so that the surgeons have the best possible platform to work with.” Definitely worked for me as last year I needed another major op (just two surgeons) to remove bowel cancer and construct an ileostomy and I am now 76 and back to wild swimming, walking & using my electric mountain bike. Albeit lower level of stamina and strength but enough energy to enjoy!

So, like EmmPet, I would encourage you and your mum to ask the questions and see how your feelings settle after that.

Warmest wishes for whatever decision you take and huge good luck.

[Vinney52 in reply to lesleysage]

Thank you so much for your help.

Best wishes for 2023.

[Trickysite]

At 76, stage 4b, I had 10 hour KEYHOLE operation by gynaecology and gastric surgeon working together. Removed or operated on about 5or 6 organs. Mr Simon Butler and Mr Agassi at Royal Surrey Guilford. Absolute miracle. 5 x 2cm cuts on my tummy. No post operative pain at all. In Intensive care for 5 days and general ward another5. Was very exhausted at home for 6 weeks and then energy began to pick up. Now 1 year on and still NED. Hope this information helps and best wishes.

[delia2]

If they’re willing to operate I’d go for it. My father had surgery for colon cancer at 83 and thrived for another 13 years. Xx

[Vinney52 in reply to delia2]

Thank you for all the positive and constructive insights .... really helpful.

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2023.

[AuntyOrange]

Hi, my mum was 87 when she had op for bowel cancer & has a stoma bag. She is only tiny but has a strong constitution & an amazing a will to live. She's now 94 & is a great role model to all the family. Good luck to your mum with her decision & I hope it's a good year for you all. 💜