From:
caitlynmaire@earthlink.net
Date: 2002-06-21 12:01:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Continuing Adrenal Problems After Second Surgery - Need
Advise
Hi, Diane,
> He has only a quarter to a half adrenal gland remaining to help him
> function and the tumor has grown back.
>
> Do I have the rest of his remaining gland removed (so he would have
> none left)? This would be his third surgery in five months or do I
> treat the symptoms with Lupron?
I am not a vet, but I have been through more than my share of adrenal
surgeries with my ferrets, including two bilaterals.
Why was part of the second adrenal gland left in there? Our vet and I
have discussed this, and he strongly believes that doing that also
leaves the disease in place. He fully removes the right gland, and
generally ligates the vena cava to get all of it. (I know some vets
believe vena cava ligation should be a last resort. Our vet, who is
well known, disagrees, with a very high success rate.)
Lupron will certainly mask Bandit's symptoms, but will do nothing to
stop the progress of the disease.
I wish you were near here. I'd send you to our vet. If Bandit has no
other health problems I know what he has done in other similar
situations where other vets have left part of the adrenal gland: a
third surgery to get it all. Why? It's the only cure, and Bandit
should have some good years still left to him. Of course, again, I am
not a vet, and I know of no vet who would make such a decision without a
thorough examination.
There are special considerations for true bilateral ferrets. They need
medication (usually prednisone and florinef) for the rest of their lives
to keep their electrolytes in balance. In the period immediately after
surgery electrolytes have to be monitored and medications may need to be
adjusted to avoid Addisonian symptoms. The good news: Pertwee is now
into his third year since having his second adrenal gland out and is as
bouncy, playful, and happy as ever.
I would go the third surgery route only with a vet who has significant
experience and success with bilateral adrenal ferrets. Here in North
Carolina there are at least three or four vets I know of who could do it
with a good chance of success, two of which are in this area. I hope
your area is similarly blessed.
I know this is hard for both you and Bandit. All the best to both of
you.
Caity and the notorious nine