Introduction
Late side effects related to surgery depend on the area of the operation. Often, they relate to the formation of scar tissue.You may experience tightening, pain, some loss of range of motion, and other effects. These may improve or worsen over time. An operation on the bowel may lead to adhesions, which prevent the bowel from moving food along. An operation that removes axillary or groin lymph nodes can cause lymphedema (the swelling of the limb). An operation for brain cancer can cause various deficits related to the area of the tumor in the brain.
Nephrectomy (removal of a kidney)
Patients who have had a kidney removed should exercise caution with regard to sports that might cause an injury to the remaining kidney. It is also important to see the doctor immediately for urinary symptoms such as burning or blood in the urine. While these would not normally affect the remaining kidney, they can lead to kidney problems if not treated.
Splenectomy (removal of the spleen)
The removal of the spleen puts a patient at an increased risk for severe or life-threatening infections. A physician should be notified right away for any sign of an infection. See the doctor immediately for a temperature of 101º F (38.3º C) or higher. Take prophylactic antibiotics at the beginning of an illness. Have immunizations to prevent certain bacterial infections (Pneumococcal, meningococcal, H. influenza B). Finally, wear a MedicAlert® bracelet noting that your spleen doesn't work (asplenia).
