Guest guest Posted October 6, 2005 Report Share Posted October 6, 2005 Well thats not an easy decision by any means. I am so sorry that you are having to consider this will all the other things going on. IMHO I think living with it is just not possible for the long term. The hormones he was referring to, was it octreotide; sandostantin. That is a hormone that communicates with the pancreas. I had those injections for almost a year and it really did make a difference. It did not get rid of my pain entirely but certainly decreased it. At one point, I was so frustrated that I refused them. Within 6 weeks I was begging for another injection. The repetative stenting has been successful with some folks. I was not a candidate for that so I am not the best one to make suggestions in that regard. However, perhaps in conjunction with the octreotide it may help. The stenting did help you before. However, that all depends on the condition of your sphinter of oddi and the duct work. If you have built up too much scar tissue then it would not be as successful. Only Dr. Lehman can tell you the condition of those. Would you be able to go to see Dr. L frequently to have this done? The traveling issue is one that you will have to keep in mind as well. I am a little confused about how you described the surgical options. Did he say to remove the part of the pancreas that has the ductal problem or did he say to surgically alter the duct itself. Those are 2 t-totally different surgeries. Did he say where in your pancreas did the ductal difficulty lie? I would suggest one thing tho. Go ahead and try the octreotide injections. It may lessen your pain enough to make you more comfortable while you consider your other options. It is a very expensive shot if you get the once a month type. About $1300 or so. My insurance co had to clear it each and every time before I had it. It certainly cant make matters any worse. If there a physcian where you live that can give it to you or would you have to go back to Dr. L? Again, then you would have to consider the travel time and expense. Anyway, I'm sorry I was not more help. It is a difficult decision and I know exactly how you feel. Been there done that so to speak. If there is anything that I can help with, please dont hesitate for one second. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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