TRAM after Radiation

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littleladi
littleladi Member Posts: 11
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
Looking for what the outcome was with anyone in a similar situation to this. Round 1 was lumpectomy and radiation. Round 2 was mastectomy. I chose the TRAM flap to give me a clothes hanger and only other option was back flap due to radiation and previous infection; no implants posible for me. (I am a young 53, skipping the nipple, but wanted the shape for the long term.) Am three months post TRAm surgery and have severe hardening under and around the TRAMs soft belly/bump on my chest. Now am in physical therapy because I couldn't work my arm back up to full reach and wanted the right way to ease into sit ups. But have been given breathing exercises for now as there is concern the scar tissue is hardening right into my ribs. Started massage of the area yesterday and the PT says one spot feels like bone, it's so hard. They believe it's due to the radiation. Anyone else have a similar issue? Can I look forward to being closer to normal texture a year from now? Or do I get used to this feeling of a one-sided straightjacket!

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  • chessie
    chessie Member Posts: 40
    #2
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    I haven't had a tram, but I did have a 'failed' implant experience. 7 months after having the tissue expander removed and the permanent implant inserted, I developed an infection. The implant was removed and I spent 4 days in the hospital on IV antibiotics. It took months for the incision to close and now I'm left with scar tissue across the chest wall which is hard like bone and extends under my arm. My surgery was 2 1/2 years ago. I also had radiation (4 months before the implant insertion). I think that may have compromised the outcome since radiation really has an effect on blood supply and the general health of the skin and underlying tissue. At this time you really need to discuss these problems with your doctor/surgeon and or pain management specialist. There are some meds that can help relieve the 'tightness'. (I can relate). Hope you are feeling better. Feel free to write to me and let me know how you're doing.
  • KathiM
    KathiM Member Posts: 8,028 Member
    #3
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    I'm sorry I can't be of much help...stopped at lumpectomy and chemo/radiation here. I have monthly massages...even my numb area from the node removal is shrinking...and I am lucky enough to have avoided the hard spots after rads...of course, I'm just 3 weeks post rads...
    Hugs, Kathi

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