Post-Op SNB, infection and chemo

NancyHB · March 2016

I had an SNB almost four weeks ago, along with a lumpectomy and port placement. My port and lx site looked great from the beginning, but the SNB site had a "lump" at one end where the incision was glued together rather oddly. I figured it would even out eventually. The incision healed nicely and looked good, but that one spot opened slightly (about 1/4") but has been fine. I started chemo two-weeks post-op (today is Day 11 and nadir). My underarm has felt tender today but I didn't think much of it until I took my bra off tonight and noticed how red that area at the end of the SNB incision is - pretty sure there's an infection. No fever at this point. I'm going to reassess in the morning, but wondering if I visit the walk-in clinic tomorrow, or should I wait and call the surgeon on Monday? I've not dealt with an infection while on chemo before so not sure the best approach. Thanks.

Skittlegirl · March 2016

I would call your MO's office tomorrow. I developed an infection in my leg and ended getting admitted to the hospital over it. I randomly guessed going to my PCP from my team of doctors. He wouldn't do anything without discussing it with my MO, who decided I needed to go to the ER. I would avoid the germs in a walk-in clinic unless your MO advises it. You may not want to wait until Monday since things can turn ugly fast on chemo.

Artista928 · March 2016

Since you bs did your sx, call the surgeon's office. You'll get the surg on call, maybe it could be yours. When I had redness and swelling on my breast I knew it could be infection so I contacted my surg office. Next thing I knew I was being told to go home get a few things because I'm being admitted to the hospital. With an open wound (oozing) I wouldn't wait till Mon. I'd call and find out what they say to do.

ChiSandy · March 2016

Nancy, so sorry to hear things going south for you. I’m with Artista on this one--surgical aftermath is the surgeon’s responsibility. Call the surgery group, tell them what’s happening and that you’re in mid-chemo; and if you get a runaround insist that the service call your surgeon with instructions you need him/her to contact you immediately. I know it’s after 1 am, but if you’re reading this, call NOW. A surgical infection in an immunocompromised patient is an emergency if ever there was one. DO keep us posted if and when you’re able. Sending healing thoughts your way.

2ND20 · March 2016

Had lumpectomy and SNB a week ok. SNB site healed perfectly but lumpectomy (under my nipple about 6 oclock infected. Went to emergency and waited 6 hours. Was given antibiotics. I hope that helps. Incision is weeping and has an odour. yuck

NancyHB · March 2016

thanks for your suggestions! Called surgeon this morning. He prescribed Keflex and will see me later this week to drain if necessary. He didn't seem concerned, even with a fever, so I guess I needn't worry either

LisaAlissa · March 2016

Nancy, alert your MO as well. You're under active treatment with chemo...s/he needs to know about the infection, that you've called the surgeon, that he's prescribed Keflex and that you have an appointment (when?) with him to determine whether he'll drain.

My very best wishes that this rapidly resolves.

LisaAlissa

Artista928 · March 2016

Kriss--Make sure you surgeon knows about your ER visit for infection, and your MO for that matter. They need to follow your infection closely.

Post-Op SNB, infection and chemo

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