 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: May 2002 Posts: 2,152 | Hi Julie,
They don't necessarily have to take it from the arm, but when they do, they usually take it from the non-writing side. In addition to worrying about the flap, you mentioned lymph node involement. Are they planning a neck dissection? If so, this could impair his ability to transfer more than the flap. One is not supposed to carry anything heavier than 1 lb for at least 3 weeks after that surgery and we usually wind up in physical therapy to rebuild strength in shoulder. I would ask about that also?
Do they make wheelchairs that have a lift seat, like the chairs with a lift seat? If so, that might solve problem until he gets strength back.
Take care,
Eileen
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Aug 1997 unknown primary, Stage III
mets to 1 lymph node in neck; rt ND, 36 XRT rad
Aug 2001 tiny tumor on larynx, Stage I total laryngectomy; left ND
June 5, 2010 dx early stage breast cancer
June 9, 2011 SCC 1.5 cm hypo pharynx, 70% P-16 positive, no mets, Stage I
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