Amputation and Chemotherapy Save Life of 80-year-old Man
May 16, 2024
In 2021, then 80-year-old Bill Tarallo was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) after he found a lump in his groin.
“Everybody said, ‘Oh, if you're going to have cancer, it's the best one to have,’” says Bill, a retired physical education teacher.
But while undergoing radiation treatments for this “best” cancer, Bill developed lymphedema (swelling from a buildup of lymph fluid) and broke two bones in his right leg. He underwent surgery at a local hospital to repair the fracture, but the condition of his leg became increasingly worse with open wounds, skin infections and a lot of pain.
“These things started growing on his leg, and it looked like it was eating his leg alive,” says Bill’s wife, Jeanette. “It was a nightmare.”
Soon after, a biopsy taken by his dermatologist revealed that Bill had advanced diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, a cancer that had developed from the slow-growing CLL he was initially diagnosed with.
Amputation Gives Chance for Full Recovery
Bill was referred to Hackensack University Medical Center, where he met with Francis Patterson, M.D., chief of orthopedic oncology. Dr. Patterson delivered the news: Bill’s best chance for a full recovery required amputating his leg.
In most cases, Dr. Patterson emphasizes that tumors can be surgically removed while reconstructing the bone to save the limb. But in Bill’s case, the damage to his leg was too severe and his lymphoma too advanced.
“It was pretty obvious that amputation was by far the better procedure for Bill,” Dr. Patterson says. “If we had spent time doing complex reconstructions, not only would it likely not have worked given the location of his tumor and fracture, but it would've delayed his systemic treatment.”
Although Bill and Jeanette were shocked by the news, they didn’t hesitate to make a decision. “Bill and I looked at each other and just knew: take it off. I’d rather him be alive than risk trying to save the leg,” says Jeanette. “And the next day, it was off,” adds Bill.
Intense Treatment for Lymphoma
Soon after surgery, Bill met hematologist-oncologist Andrew Ip, M.D., to discuss the next stage of his treatment.
“I told him that in our team’s hands, we think advanced diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is highly curable,” Dr. Ip says.
Dr. Ip started Bill on targeted chemotherapy pills while his leg healed. Once the risk of infection was low enough, Bill began the first of six rounds of chemotherapy infusions.
“He was a very robust 80-year-old man who walked miles a day and lifted weights. Functionally, he was probably more like a 65-year-old,” says Dr. Ip. “I thought the right treatment was to give him a more intense dose of chemo because those patients have a better outcome, and I thought he could handle it.”
Three months later, a PET scan revealed good news. “Dr. Ip called us at home and said, ‘I don't want you to wait and worry over the weekend.’ The PET scan came out clear and we were ecstatic,” Jeanette says.
With his lymphoma in remission, Bill takes a daily chemotherapy pill to treat his CLL and continues to be monitored.
Poster Boy for Amputation and Prosthetics
Getting back his mobility was a priority for Bill. A few months after surgery, while still undergoing chemotherapy, he was fitted for a prosthetic leg.
“He’s a bit of a poster boy for older people with amputations. He returned to very good function, independence and less pain, probably quicker than a lot of other people,” says Dr. Patterson. “I surprised myself,” adds Bill.
Bill and Jeanette are grateful to the medical team at Hackensack Meridian Health for giving them this next phase of their life together. “Angels were looking over and guiding us to the right people at the right time,” Jeanette says. “Drs. Patterson and Ip and the nurses in the cancer center are just unbelievable. Without them, Bill wouldn't be here today.”
Next Steps & Resources
- Meet our sources: Francis Patterson, M.D. and Andrew Ip, M.D.
- To make an appointment with an oncologist near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
- Learn more about cancer care at Hackensack Meridian Health.
- Schedule a cancer screening near you.
The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.
