Jump to content

What do we know about Superior Vena Cava syndrome?


Recommended Posts

Posted

I've got a neck like a linebacker!! Just went in today for another CT of my chest to see what this is....but the onc's orders said it was to "rule out SVCS". It's not swollen lymph nodes.

This'd be funny if it weren't so scary. I'm starting to think I'm Justakid's long lost, MUCH older sister!! :roll:

Happy Valentine's Day to all. That's one bright spot today....eh?

Posted

SVCS is when the tumor is on the vena cava causing the blood to back up (hence the swelling) because it has trouble returning to the heart. For John, he had to have radiation immediately to get the tumor down and off the vein. His body has begun to make new pathways back to the heart to compensate.

It needs to be treated quickly if that's what your swelling is. They told John that the radiologists will come in on weekends just to treat SVCS patients.

PM if you'd like.

Rochelle

Posted

Addie,

Mike had SVCS, as well. Aside from the neck swelling, so did the arms, hands, face and there were little broken looking veins across his upper abdomen . He was put in the hospital immediately, radiation was started and a stent was put in. The stent did the trick... actually, in his case the doctor put one stent over another for reinforcement. They put him on plavix for 6 months and the 6 months is now over . The procedure worked well for him. I am telling you this not for you to worry , but more for reassurance that it can be handled . The stent procedure only took about 45 minutes .

One day at a time Addie, that's all any of us can do. Praying things improve for you soon.

sue

Posted

I had a chest CT with contrast today and the good news is there are NO blockages anywhere in the area to account for the edema.

The biopsy is tomorrow and my onc may well start me on chemo before the week is out, which he says will take care of the edema. So otherwise, all he told me was to sleep with my head well elevated....3 pillows.

I generally do sleep with three...and it didn't stop my neck from swelling....so...?????????

But apparently I'm in no immediate danger. I did read in an article earlier too, that even abdominal tumors can cause SVCS...anyone know anything about that?

Thanks to all for the info. Helps to have the experience of others...even IF it may not completely apply....you know?

Posted

Addie,

Put me on the long list of people thinking of you today as you go through the biopsy. Glad tohear that they've eliminated one thing; hope the chemo takes care of it ALL pronto!

Ellen

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Restore formatting

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use.