The Cancer Survivors Network (CSN) is a peer support community for cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and friends! CSN is a safe place to connect with others who share your interests and experiences.

Thank you for being a part of the Cancer Survivor Network community. Survivors and caregivers like you have played a unique role in fostering an online environment that encourages connection among those needing support, community, and education. On May 28, the Network will be discontinued. More details are available here . If you have any questions, contact CSNSupportTeam@cancer.org. Thanks again for the support you’ve provided each other over the years. We remain committed to supporting you in other ways throughout your cancer journey.

Seroma developed after lung surgery

KFalvey
KFalvey CSN Member Posts: 118 Member
edited March 2014 in Colorectal Cancer #1
Hi everyone,

I developed a seroma (5"x2.5"x1") on my back over the incision area from lung surgery on Oct. 16th. It started from my dog pulling on the leash unexpectedly; he's a big dog. It didn't hurt immediately after but a sharp pain, I think a muscle spasm, happened twice about an hour after the pull, and then my back got swollen up alarmingly. It didn't continue hurting bad, just uncomfortable. I went to my primary DR. and she said to wait to see if it would get better on it's own. That was 3.5 weeks ago. I went back to her today and she put a needle in it and said it was a seroma. I could either go back to the surgeon and have a drain put in, or continue waiting to see if it will go away in time.
Has anyone had this problem and how long does it take to go away? I really don't want anymore surgery anytime soon.
Thanks for any replies.
Kandy

Comments

  • shmurciakova
    shmurciakova CSN Member Posts: 904 Member
    Hi Kandy,
    I had a seroma form at the bottom of my incision after my initial colon resection. It healed on its own. I did not have as large of a seroma as you have, so I don't know if getting a drain is neessary or not. If I were you I think I would e-mail or call the surgeon and explain the situation and see what he/she says.
    Mine was only like the size of a pea, or slightly larger. I did have a lung resection several years ago, but did not have a seroma at that site.
    Best wishes and take care of that big doggie!
    Susan H.