Hi, I have recently been diagnosed with uterine cancer and have an upcoming surgery. I am very worried and anxious at this point. I’ve had all the tests done including MRI and CT scans. However, I did not have the dye with the MRI so they insisted that I have a CT with dye so they would be able to see the images more clearly. I eventually had the CT scan but the Surgeon does not want to show me the results. He only showed me one MRI image in black and white and when I asked about the CT scans he didn’t think it was necessary for me to see them. He said they can only see 75% on the scans and the rest would be revealed when I have the op. He said it could be a stage 1 or 3 but couldn’t tell from the MRI black and white scan. This has left me feeling even more anxious and would like to ask anyone if this is normal practise. They also got me to sign away my rights to all the risks involved with this surgery including death. This has left me really worried to say the least. Please advise somebody and thank you in advance for your support.
Upcoming Surgery: Hi, I have recently... - SHARE Uterine Can...
Upcoming Surgery
It is only natural to be worried by a cancer diagnosis and upcoming surgery. Is there a specialist nurse you could talk things through with? Do you know what sort of surgery is planned? It is only after surgery that pathology can analyse the tumour in detail and give more detailed information about the type of cancer , stage and grade.
I hope you can talk things through with a specialist nurse who should be able to explain what is already known from the scans and biopsy ( I presume you had a biopsy?) and also what to expect regarding the surgery, recovery and when the results should be available . I wish you all the best.
Thank you for your response. I have spoken to the specialist nurse but she is only saying what the surgeon has told her. My concern is why can’t I see the CT scan results that they insisted I have before surgery? So at least it would put my mind at peace. They said it would be keyhole but if they find anything else it would be open. So I’m not really clear of the outcome. They have said I can see the CT results on the day of surgery or the day after as they have no available appointments just now.
I would get a second and third opinion . Send your results electronically to other top doctors in your area and get their opinions. This is what I did!
Yes, I will try to do that. I have requested my results but am awaiting them. I hope I get them before the day of the op. Thank you.
Although there are risks with any surgery and no guarantees, it is very important that you have faith in your health care team and believe you are doing the right thing and are in good hands. Did you go alone to appointments with the surgeon? It is best to bring a friend or family member. Also getting a second opinion can ease doubts and help us make the best decisions. My stage 4 endometrial cancer hysterectomy was my first surgery ever at age 64 and I was very scared, but it all came out good. I never viewed my scans but my surgeon drew me pictures of the situation and explained in detail what she was going to do, and gave me choices.
Thank you. That is very comforting to know. It is my first ever surgery @ 61 and I am petrified. I did bring company along with me. I will try to be more positive. Well done to you for being so brave.
Wow. That is an excellent doctor that takes time to explain and draw things out. What area are you located in? I find the doctors here to be very busy and not very good at communicating, even though I am in a major city and have been seen at teaching institutions. Most don't really explain things well.
I was 2 years before referred for surgery.. could not have keyhole because of Covid (2 yrs ago). Everything removed. No follow up cos I moved !! Op. was fone so don't worry. I recovered well but now 2 yrs since op. I have bladder probs. Yet my muscles are good always done pelvic floor exercises but now I cannot stop if Ive had a drink outside home!! So I think this should be your only worry. Good luck!! 🤗
Hi - I agree with all replies that have been posted.
It's natural to be nervous about surgery and the possible outcomes. We all need to be our own advocates in dealing with our health care teams and make sure we get the answers we need.
I was diagnosed 8 years ago with Stage 1A, grade 3 serous endometrial cancer and had both chemo and radiation at the recommendation of my team. It wasn't easy but I am glad I did it. I am fortunate and blessed that since that time I have not had a recurrence.
As for the CT scans, I've had many. My doctors didn't show me the scans but did explain everything. I also had an endometrial biopsy which found the cancer, but had to wait almost 2 weeks for the surgery. Unfortunately, until the pathology report is available which clarifies the type, stage and grade of the cancer, we don't have a final diagnosis. I think this was mentioned in other posts.
Assuming you have had your surgery, I hope all has gone well!
