TEM procedure

JHH
JHH Member Posts: 23
in Anal Cancer #1

Has anyone had the TEM procedure for removal of rectal tumor?  It appears not all surgeons are able to do it.

Comments

  • Mollymaude
    Mollymaude Member Posts: 431 Member
    #2
    JHH

    Im glad you are looking into this. I read about when it was unclear what kind of cancer I had and was waiting on pathology reports. I think you are wise to get a second opinion, and yes you will probably have to travel to find a surgeon who can do it. But if it can treat you effectively and avoid a colostomy that would be ideal. 

  • eihtak
    eihtak Member Posts: 1,473 Member
    edited July 2017 #3
    JHH...

    Hi, 

    I too have little to offer regarding TEM, sorry...I have though heard of this procedure as when dx with anal cancer 6 1/2 years ago and scheduled for ostomy surgery, though unfortunately too sick to do much research myself, I was given a copy with some info on this from my sister. Due to size and location of my tumor this was not a good option for me. I do however think it sounds like you may be a likely candidate and hope it works in your favor!

    I did end up with a permanent colostomy, and if at some point that (or illiostomy) is in your future, know that you'll be ok. I won't lie, there is a period of adjustment both emotional and physical, but then life continues. In time, dealing with an ostomy becomes second nature. I am very active with my 8 grandkids....I swim, chase soccer balls and field baseballs, I walk (hike) often, though I've never really been a runner, I do gentle yoga, and this past year graduated from college after an almost 40 year break from school!

    I will pray that you recieve whatever treatment is best to get you to a place of health and peace as you move forward.

    katheryn

  • itsajourney
    itsajourney Member Posts: 15 Member
    edited July 2017 #4
    JHH

    Three years ago, I had a TEM via the Da Vinci surgical system for excision of a squamous cell carcinoma tumor of the anal canal. My surgeon was one of a very few trained and experienced with this system. I'm not sure where you are geographically, but she is now practicing in York. Pennsylvania. I'd be happy to answer any questions about my experience with the system if you think it would be helpful to you. 

  • JHH
    JHH Member Posts: 23
    edited July 2017 #5
    itsajourney said:

    JHH

    Three years ago, I had a TEM via the Da Vinci surgical system for excision of a squamous cell carcinoma tumor of the anal canal. My surgeon was one of a very few trained and experienced with this system. I'm not sure where you are geographically, but she is now practicing in York. Pennsylvania. I'd be happy to answer any questions about my experience with the system if you think it would be helpful to you. 

    Lisa

    My tumor is 'just below the rectosigmoid junction'.  It' is a 3.7 cm tumor (T2).  My research I've done and one specialist I spoke with, says TEM isn't an option due to size of my tumor. They said anything over 3 cm is too large.  I've got one more place I'm going to speak with yet.  

    My surgeon usese the Da Vinci Robot as well, and is suggesting Laproscopic lower resection, with a "possible'' temp. eliostomy.   All very daunting.

  • itsajourney
    itsajourney Member Posts: 15 Member
    edited July 2017 #6
    JHH said:

    Lisa

    My tumor is 'just below the rectosigmoid junction'.  It' is a 3.7 cm tumor (T2).  My research I've done and one specialist I spoke with, says TEM isn't an option due to size of my tumor. They said anything over 3 cm is too large.  I've got one more place I'm going to speak with yet.  

    My surgeon usese the Da Vinci Robot as well, and is suggesting Laproscopic lower resection, with a "possible'' temp. eliostomy.   All very daunting.

    My heart goes out to you. I

    My heart goes out to you. I know how trying to absorb volumes of information regarding cancer types and tumors and treatments and surgeons and technology while in the fog of disbelief and fear can be. "Daunting" is putting it mildly. My tumor was a bit over 2 cm. and within the anal canal. Maximum tumor size was not discussed during my consultations. The fact that your tumor is further up, as well as your type of cancer, probably impact what types of excisions can be safely done. I am an advocate for second, third and even fourth opinions - if opinions regarding treatment options differ. Other members here have far greater knowledge than I regarding which treatment centers and doctors are at the top of their game. I am so sorry that you have to go through this. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Deb

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