I am scheduled in 2 days for cytoreductive surgery and hipec chemo at Moffitt in Tampa. I had 2 wonderful years with NED and then last month the bottom dropped out from underneath me. CEA is 447 and CA-125 is 144. 3 very large tumors found. My doctor says even if he can remove it all, typically the cancer reaccurs within 12 months in almost all patients.
I am extremely nervous about this 9-12 hour surgery, what to expect, how long it takes to recover, if the Hipec has side effects etc.? Ive had many surgeries in my 39 years, but this is the first time I am really scared.
Has anyone had any experience with either this surgery or hipec? Are there any Stage IV'ers out there that have been NED beyond 12 months?
Thank You! Stay Strong Everyone! We Can Beat This!