Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
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Radiation Therapy Questions about Radiation Therapy. |
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| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
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| 3/29/2010 | How soon after surgery for lumpectomy should radiation start and is 6 weeks to long to wait. Is 50 grey the max amount of radiation a breast can take.Also the rad beam will cross over the edge of heart says the rad onc, so is this likely to be a future health issue. thank you | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 3/30/2010 | yes, acceptable time frame. inquire what steps are being taken to help reduce exposure to your heart. we have used a device called "active breath control " devise that times you when to inhale and exhale in relationship to when the radiation is being given so that the heart and lung is more protected. most women do not have heart issues however from portion of heart being exposed to radiation today. 25 years ago that story was very different. L | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.