Radiation Therapy Omission
Hello, I have been informed by a radiation oncologist that I am at a increased risk of developing radiation-induced fibrosis (RIF) from radiation therapy (RT) due to my having a connective tissue d...
Forum Discussion
Hi Hopeday,
Thank you for responding and welcome to the group chat. I am happy to hear that your surgery went well with the tumour successfully removed.
I understand your concerns regarding the amount of scans required to ensure that the consultants are in the best position to diagnose; plan for and recommend the most suitable treatments for your case. While I am not medically trained, I understand that the CT scan used for the RT planning in my specific case was low dose and the DEXA scan dose was less than that of an Xray. I was informed that in the context of the routine scans they need to weigh-up the benefits against any risks. The best person to speak to about radiation risks from scanning procedures for your specific case is the radiation oncologist who are best placed to explain these risks.
I hope that with each passing day your surgical wound improves and your pain subsides. I am glad to hear that the nurse is checking the healing. The nurse is absolutely there to listen and respond to any concerns that you may have around wound healing in preparation for RT. Alternatively McGrath Foundation nurses are available to contact for clinical, psychosocial and emotional support at no cost if you feel you would benefit from additional support.
As I understand it, omitting RT is not standard practice. Decisions around the suitability for omitting RT are complex and best made in consultation with your radiation oncologist. The comment you are referring to - that you need to be over 70 years of age to omit RT - was not made by me but by Maxis (see below). I myself am not aware of this. I am aware however that some research trials are exploring omitting RT for those patients who meet strict eligibility criteria. Various age restrictions apply. For clarity it may help to reply to Maxis.
It may be most helpful however to request an appointment with your radiation oncologist to answer any questions you might have in regard to RT and to discuss your concerns. They are best placed to provide you with the most uptodate information in the context of your particular case.
Hopeday thank you kindly for sharing your experience. Sending you positive healing energy.
Klio 🌷
Hi Klio,
Thanks for your advice. I did chat and sorted my problem out for the time being. My Oncologist postponing my RT for 4 weeks to end of October so my wound can heal. He too agree not the right time to proceed with RT with raw wound. I have also completed the Dexa bone scan and that was the most easiest procedure ever. The Dexa operator was really friendly and that helped a lot.
Recently I go diagnosed with vertigo so I have been feeling great. Hence did not respond to your message. Special exercise and tablets with this treatment too.😞
Thanks
Hopeday
Hi Hopeday,
Really glad to hear that you have been in contact with the radiation oncologist and that RT has been postponed to allow for your surgical wound to heal.
Relieved that your DEXA scan was uncomplicated. I agree that having a friendly technician helps. Makes things so much less stressful when undergoing tests or imaging that you have not had before.
I was also please to hear that your vertigo is being treated and hope that your have relief from it soon. I find managing pre-existing conditions alongside a bc diagnosis and treatment can be physically and psychologically taxing.
Hopeday I send you the very best wishes for both wound healing and vertigo.
Klio 🍀