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Mastectomy with Flap Reconstruction Questions about Mastectomy with Flap Reconstruction. |
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| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
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| 11/2/2011 | I had pedicled TRAM reconstruction January 2010 and I now have an uneven belly, a large bulge on the lower left side and an abdominal hernia -- all of the bad collateral damage from this procedure. Over the last 18 months I've had recurring bladder infections, which previously were rare for me. Is it possible that this increase in bladder infections is somehow related to the pedicled TRAM procedure or its aftermath? I do not smoke and I am not a diabetic. Thank you. | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 11/4/2011 | Thank you for turning to the Johns Hopkins Breast Center. I do not believe the increase in bladder infections is related to the TRAM surgery. It is possible the surgery could have left some scar tissue, or the abdominal hernia placing pressure on the bladder could contribute, but I am not sure this could be the only cause. Consider evaluation for new onset diabetes, as well as if you are on tamoxifen or an AI, atrophy of the vaginal tissues may occur, and may account for frequent UTI. Consult as well with your GYN or even a Urologist/GYN, called a uro.gyn. I hope this helps. | ||
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