| Surgical
Overview: |
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In
most cases of cancer, a surgeon will
be the doctor that actually obtains the
cells that are looked at by the pathologist
who makes the diagnosis of cancer. This
may be by way of a need aspiration, core biopsy,
incisional/excisional biopsy, or the
use of special scopes that are placed into
the suspected area either through the mouth (going
all the way to the large intestines) or through
the anus (going up to the small intestines). Sometimes
a small incision is made into the chest or abdomen
and a scope is inserted with a special viewing
tube that allows the doctor to see any abnormal
areas that may need to be biopsied. If all of
these less invasive techniques are unsuccessful
at determining if a cancer is present, then a
more extensive surgery may be required
in which general anesthesia may be required along
with a hospital stay.
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Once
a diagnosis is made, in most situations, tests will
be performed to determine the extent of the cancer.
These will usually include x-rays, CT scans
and/or MRIs and blood tests.
If it is determined that the cancer can be safely
and completely removed, then surgery may
be recommended. In some cases, it may be determined
that the use of chemotherapy and/or radiation
may shrink a tumor that will allow for a better chance
for a complete removal. If this is the case, you will
need to have several other tests, including an EKG
(which will show how your heart is working and whether
you will be able to tolerate surgery), a chest x-ray
if one has not already been taken (to see if there are
possible lung problems), and a special breathing
test especially if there is any chance that a part
of the lung is going to be removed.
Click on the button below to find out the possible Side
Effects from the Surgery.
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| If
all of these tests show that you can go to surgery safely,
then there are many things that you need to consider.
You may want to determine if there is a need for blood.
If the answer is yes, then you should ask your surgeon
about donating your own blood beforehand and ask family
members of the same blood type to donate also. You should
also spend time with your surgeon to talk about
what the operation will remove and how it will
affect your daily activities, appearance, strength and
ability to continue to work if you are employed. You need
to ask about how long it is estimated that you will be
hospitalized and how the decision will be made to discharge
you from the hospital. You should have a set follow up
appointment not only with the surgeon but for any rehab
services that may be needed, like occupational therapy
and physical therapy. Once these questions have
been addressed, you can make plans with your family and
your employer. |
| As
with all surgeries, the area being operated
on will result in different side effects.
The side effects of surgery on the throat will have
different side effects than removal of the bladder.
If you receive chemotherapy and or radiation before
and/or after surgery, some of the surgical side
effects can be worsened. ALWAYS ask questions
so that you understand what is about to happen to
you. |
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