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Lana's avatar
Lana
Member
13 years ago

One month on

We'll since my diagnosis I have had my right Brest removed. All nodes we're clear and clear margins around tumours. i live on the gold coast and I see the surgeon on the 21st October to find out what the next step is. I have done some research but want to be prepared when I have my appointment. I am going through the public system. Should I ask for a PET scan to see if cancer is anywhere else. I was given statistics at my last visit . Chemo and tablets increase my chances of survival to 91%. I am confused , is chemo used to prevent further cancer as well. I know everyone is different , are there some tests I should insist on having? I am willing to pay to have them. Any advice would be appreciated.

chemotherapy
mastectomy

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  • Deanne's avatar
    Deanne
    Member
    13 years ago
    It's good news that you had clear margins and clear nodes. Did you have a CT scan and bone scan before your surgery? These are the usual scans to have to check that there is no cancer elsewhere. Chemo decreases your chance of recurrence because it kills any stray cells that may have travelled from the original tumor through the lymph or blood and stops them from reproducing to form a tumor elsewhere. It is very effective against microscopic cells that are not detectable on any scans. 91% is a very reassuring figure to be given. I hope this has answered your questions. I found reading the information about Chemo on this site very helpful in getting an understanding of how it works. You will also be able to ask the oncologist questions when you see them. I liked to try and understand the basics as it helped me to understand why certain treatments were needed. Take care and hope your next visit goes well. xx Deanne