My father is a 64 year old smoker who was diagnosed with linitis plastica a month ago. Needless to say, my entire family is devastated as he was being treated for a bleeding ulcer and gastritis since January 2007. We have been given a bleak prognosis (6-12 months with chemo) and we are debating whether to have a J-tube inserted into his jejunum or a TPN line inserted below his clavicle. Quite literally, we are receiving conflicting advice from two very reputable cancer hospitals and we are in a quandry. My dad is 5'10" tall and weighs only 140 pounds. On a daily basis, he is only eating 3 Ensures, some broth and juice and a few crackers. We are fearful of the J-tube causing infection but we are also afraid the TPN therapy won't be nourishing enough and will only be a temporary solution.
Since this is such a rare disorder, we are thankful to have discovered this message board, and any information, insights or experience relating to our dilemma would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.