Dad is having his pericardial effusion drained tomorrow. Q's

[kitkathi]

Hi All,

I've posted before talking about my dads pericardial effusion (he was having abnormal ECG readings). He saw his cardiologist today and they are going to drain the fluid tomorrow morning. He is supposed to be in the hospital for 24 - 48 hours. This seems a bit extreme to me. Does anyone think it is because they want to monitor his heart because of the release of pressure build-up when the fluid is drained? I was also wondering if my dad should contact his oncolgist to let him know. Apparently the decision was made in the late afternoon and my dad didn't want to bug his oncologist (who is totally awesome). Although my dad is NED I was still thiking that my dads oncologist would want to know. I know they will test the fluid for cancer cells; this is making me feel very nervous. If anyone has any thoughts about this drop me a post.

Thanks,

kitkathi

[-Cheryl-]

KIt,

I pm'ed you about my pericardial surgery to drain my effusion. Let me know if I can answer any more questions, and God be with you and your dear Dad tomorrow.

Cheryl

[paddy]

I should think the doc and the oncologist should be working together on this. Good luck to your Dad. Paddy

[ginnyde]

Hope all goes well for your Dad this morning and that the results are good. And, yes, I think you should let his onc. know since he is probably the main doc on his treatment.

[mhutch1366]

Good luck to your dad in the am.

I would think that holding you 24-48 would be in case of infection.

Sure, his oncologist should know. I hope the other doctor called him.

Prayers,

XOXOXOXOX

MaryAnn