? Delaying radiotherapy

Ask our Nurses your questions
1

Hi there, I have had a lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy in August. Problems occurred immediately post op with a seroma and suture caught in it. Back to surgery September for a redo procedure then after 9 days post op redness all over the breast and a seroma developed. Aspirated, fluid sent to the lab, and started antibiotics.

1 Week later no real improvement, back to clinic for a review. The seroma aspirate is resistant to the antibiotic I am on.

So new antibiotic started, my skin keeps peeling and looks fragile and am worried it will delay my Radiotherapy due to start 27th.

There is still some discharge from the seroma, but only a dot or two.

My planning CT is this Tuesday.

I don’t want my Radiotherapy delayed. I think my antibiotics need to continue longer than a week. Will Radiotherapy be delayed if the wound hasn’t healed?

2

Hi @burstcouch,

Thanks for posting.

It sounds like you are having a difficult time recovering from your 2 surgeries for breast cancer.

Post op complications like an infection, haematoma or seroma can delay subsequent treatments.

Hopefully you are now on the antibiotics that will help with the healing process. Your radiotherapy

may be delayed if the area hasn’t healed sufficiently. This is because the radiotherapy could further damage and break down the skin causing more problems.

It can feel worrying if treatment is delayed. Perhaps you will have the chance to talk this through with someone at your planning appointment tomorrow. They may be able to reassure you. This information about skin care during radiotherapy for when you start treatment might be helpful.

We offer a range of free supportive services which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.

Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.

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Best wishes,

Jane

Breast Care Nurse

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