How long does it take for a mammosite area to heal?

Options
dcchef
dcchef Member Posts: 25
edited June 2014 in DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ)

I am 51 years old and was diagnosed with DCIS on May 13, 2010.  I had a lumpectomy and followed with a mammosite and 5 days of partial internal radiation.  I had one issue with a blood vessel "leaking" from my mammosite and had to have it cuarterized with silver nitrate.  I had my last treatment on Friday, June 11, 2010.  My balloon was removed and the site area was sore because the silver nitrate caused some clots and made it more difficult to get the balloon out.  The doctor told me not to worry.  I was given antibiotic cream and have been applying it religiously.  The "slit" seems to be healing very slowly.  I was wondering how long it should take to heal.  I am seeing my surgeon tomorrow.  Just feeling worried.

· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • helenap
    helenap Member Posts: 105
    edited June 2010

    i would love to know as well since once my pathology is back tommororw I am scheduled for mammosite as well. were you tired in between treatments,. I am an hour away and was planning on trying to get some little errands done in between. Am I beling unrealistic..

    I am 60 .. with a small tumor but grade 3.. 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • dcchef
    dcchef Member Posts: 25
    edited June 2010

    I felt fine during the treatments last week.  The entire process only took about half an hour.  Sleeping and clothing are a bit tricky since you will have the wires hanging out.  I tried to keep to my "normal" routine (running errands, laundry, cooking, etc).  I have two kids (almost 12 and 14), my husband, and the dog to take care of.  Since you have an hour commute maybe you can do a couple of errands or if you feel like you need to relax just bring a good book.  

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • helenap
    helenap Member Posts: 105
    edited June 2010

    that is helpful to know thanks... were you told not to drive for two weeks. that has been the hardest thing not to do.. luckily my daughter who is a LPN studying to be a nurse can change dressings etc. and she will come in friday night to spend the week. i hate feeling dependent on other people when i am use to doing things for myself.

    what was you tumor size and grade. i was a little nervous since I am grade 3.. but this sounded perfect for me.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • dcchef
    dcchef Member Posts: 25
    edited July 2010

    My microcalcifications were during my routine mammogram.  I had two areas of microcalcifications.  One was fine and one was not. I I had a stereotactic biopsy followed by lumpectomy.  I followed up with the mammosite and 5 day partial High Density Radiation.   I was considered Stage 0 and <1cm, Grade 2, ER+/PR+.  I was never told not to drive unless I took Darvocet (I did not).  I really did not have much pain.  My husband and I did the dressings.  It wasn't bad at all.  I am glad that you will have help if you need it.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories