4 days post translab questions

[kgs123]

I'm 4 days post surgery (translab, right side) at Duke. Released to home today. They got 99% of the tumor (18x13x9mm) with no facial nerve impact to date.

They said to be on the lookout for CSF leaks. Nothing coming from nose unless I'm eating hot food so ENT said that is ok. I am swallowing a lot but it's more like post nasal drip stuff than what they aid would be like saltwater or metallic tasting (nothing like that). Is this normal for what you all encountered? I realize that the environment at home is different with humidity and cooking in the kitchen, etc - leading to different conditions than were in the hospital.

Balance is coming along. Lots less than what I was expecting for dizziness, though I realize I'm only at the beginning here.

Thanks for the support, all.

[ColleenS]

It sounds like you are doing just great! Do not worry about the CFL - if it happens you will know. If you are not sure, you probably do not have it. I did have it and you know. It is a steady drip drip drip when you bend your head down. So it is best not to stress about what may not happen Keep us posted on your progress. Rest and take things slow.

[kgs123]

Thank you so much. I've been so neurotic with this possibility and not wanting to go back under for a fix. This morning I coughed (by reflex) and pain went from just 1-2 but panic went from 1-5. This is crazy stuff. I really appreciate hearing about perspective!

[LakeErie]

AN surgery involves irrigation of the area and any left over fluid can result in some nasal leaking through the sinus near term. I had a nasal CSF leak and believe me, if you have one, you will be aware of it. Good luck

[Sailfish]

I’m three weeks post op from Duke Raleigh.  Drs Cunningham and Zomorodi were awesome and I have no regrets going Translabyrthrine.  I worried a lot the first week and still worry about the CSFL myself.  I’m following all the rules sleeping at the 35% incline and not lifting anything heavier than a coffee mug. 

I’d like to know if there is a point at 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 2 months when the chance of the leak is gone.  Thank you all in advance for sharing your experience. 

[kgs123]

Wow, they told you coffee mug? I have been told a gallon of milk (8-10 lbs) for the first six weeks. I lifted milk today.

Dr Francis (Duke Durham) told me yesterday after a week post surgery, that I am pretty much in the clear of CFS leakage. He had me lean forward - nothing flowing. He did say no nose blowing for a month and do my best to not cough. Nice, 44 degree weather here to help that out, ugh. But I think exercising caution forward means that there should not be a set back at this point.

[Sailfish]

Sorry they said the same about not lifting anything heavier than a gallon of milk but I am trying to improve my odds by not lifting anything more than a coffee mug.