I'm having my FNH removed on Tuesday... - Liver & Pancreas Disorders Message Board

caryn913 · 10-11-2008, 07:48 PM

I had posted a while back with some questions and haven't been able to get back on since. I have been in a whirlwind of dr visits and tests for the past 2 months. And as it turns out I have 4 lessions of FNH, 2 small one in the right lobe of my liver, and 2 large (one 9.5cm and one 6.5cm) in the left lobe of my liver. The 6.5cm one is hanging off of my liver, hitting other things. So, that is what will be removed as my drs feel that will potentially cause the most problems with future pregnancies and such (higher risk of bleeding). So here is my question...what should I expect for the recovery? They are aiming to do the procedure laproscopically. So assuming that is done, what should I expect? I have a very active 13month old son. When will I be able to care for him on my own again (I am a stay at home mom)? Any advice? Thank you!

neens7982 · 10-12-2008, 11:52 AM

Caryn,

Sorry you have to have surgery, but at least it will be done laparoscopicallly. If you click on the thread FNH/Adenomas/Hemangiomas, there are several ladies who have had laparoscopic liver resections. I do think the healing time is quicker, but, it is still major surgery. You will definitely need help with things. You won't be able to lift anything over 5 lbs for the first 4-6 weeks. For the first two, you will definitely need someone to help you around.

I had an open liver resection and I was 29 at the time. I had two young boys at home. I was active and healthy prior to surgery. But I still can't believe how the surgery affected me. I was extremely tired for weeks. It really took about three months to truly feel normal again. Everyone reacts differently I'm sure. If you have time to click on the other thread, some of the other ladies would be excellent resources regarding their removal via laparoscopy.

Best of luck to you and if you need anything, just ask! I'll send a prayer your way on Tuesday!

AMinNJ · 10-12-2008, 07:09 PM

Hi Caryn!

So good to hear from you again! It's great that you're having surgery so quickly, and you can put this all behind you. Your doctors sound great, very efficient and very thorough. Are they by any chance in NYC? Are they going to take out all 4, or just the big ones on the left? Did they say how long you had to wait before getting pregnant after your surgery? And if you don't mind refreshing my memory, how old are you now? (So many questions, sorry!)

I have 4 lesions in my liver also, one small on the left, and 2 small and 1 larger on the right. My liver specialist thinks they are FNH but we will know more after my next MRI, which is currently scheduled for January.

Did your doctors give you any idea why these things may have grown in your liver? I'm still scratching my head wondering how mine got there. Wish I knew!

I will be thinking of you all day on Tuesday, and you will be in my family's prayers. Please send us an update when you can. Wishing you speedy healing!

Angela

AMinNJ · 10-12-2008, 07:20 PM

Oops, sorry, I see you already answered my question about which tumors they are removing (I'm guessing just the big one hanging off your liver, or maybe both big ones?)

Angela

tinyt3 · 10-12-2008, 08:55 PM

caryn913,
So sorry to hear you are having surgery. I had open liver resection and I am 34. My youngest child is 4 so I had to have some help. I felt pretty rough for the first month and maybe a little better at 6 weeks. It gradually gets better each week. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
TinyT3