First visit to the surgical oncologist

Discussion Board Forums Surgery, Resection & Transplant Treatment Options First visit to the surgical oncologist

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  • #87296
    marions
    Moderator

    dhometexas…….I have learned that laparotomy (exploratory procedure) is the first step of a planned biliary surgery. Time for this “first step” varies, but rarely it appears to last longer than a few hours.
    You might also want to ask about the “estimated” time for the biliary surgery.
    Hugs,
    Marion

    #87295
    lainy
    Spectator

    dhometexas. just to let you know about the same as Catherine did, 10 years ago when my husband had his Whipple, we were told they they could really not tell until they got in there. The surgeries can be lengthy and the ONC Surgeon said, ” if I come out in less than 4 hours that means we cannot continue.” After we passed the 4 hour mark I breathed a sigh of relief. Everyone is different and that makes a difference too. Teddy was 73, your son is much younger which is better. The ONC also told us that these surgeries are very big BUT not life threatening like heart surgery would be. I know it is scary but you never know how strong you are until “strong” is the only choice you have! And, it is the best option we have at this point. Best of luck for your visit tomorrow.

    #87294
    dhometexas
    Spectator

    Catherine-

    Thank you and I will let you know. I hope that your Mom is doing well.

    As our son’s tumor has been hard to located- even with all the imaging tests- they may need to do exploratory surgery.

    Take Care
    Fred

    #87293
    middlesister1
    Moderator

    Dear Fred,

    When we thought Mom would have surgery, we were very new to this disease and all we knew was that having surgery was a good thing. So, our basic questions at that time were focused on just risk, recovery and how long it would take.

    The ONC did tell Mom that they might close her back up depending on how it looked when they got in (which is what happened) .

    I hope everything goes well tomorrow. Please let us know how you make out.

    Catherine

    #11047
    dhometexas
    Spectator

    Hello-

    Our son was diagnosed with a Klatskin tumor (3cm) last November which was determined to be border line resectable. Over the past few months, he received both chemo and radiation in an attempt to reduce the size of the tumor. But the results of his MRI and CT Scan at the end of treatment were inclusive.

    We have an appointment with a surgical oncologist on Monday to review the imaging and to determine if the tumor can be removed.

    What questions should we ask the doctor?

    Thanks You in advance for your suggestions

    Fred

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