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Delayed Reconstruction Questions about Delayed Breast Reconstruction. |
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| 11/1/2011 | Scheduled for DIEP in one month,however, had chest CT showing 1.1 cm hypo dense mass within the lateral aspect of liver dome. Abdominal CT two weeks prior did not mention any abnormalities with the liver. Now,I am concerned about the status of the flap procedure. If I have the mass removed prior to flap,will this end any prospect of having the flap procedure in the future? Can the mass be removed during the flap procedure? Further studies have not been ordered to evaluate the mass, which makes me very uncomfortable. Knowing that I had found my breast CA early was of little comfort as I had to wait a month for bilat. mastectomy, resulting in stage 3C cancer. I begged to have the surgery date moved up, as I WATCHED my tumor grow to the size of an egg before my eyes. I was repeatedly told "NO". The surgeon's parting comments to my husband were "she's going to need radiation". That's it! My oncologist is out of town next week,my appointment canceled. Cannot seem to get anyone's attention. My life is in limbo here and I can't get answers. My cancer was very aggressive,grade 3. Do I take it upon myself to find a doctor to further evaluate, as this mass could potentially delay or permanently end prospects of reconstruction? I need help fast. What should I do? | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 11/1/2011 | Thank you for turning to the Johns Hopkins Breast Center. There is certainly a lot going on here. The liver mass needs to be biopsied first, before any breast reconstruction. A breast surgical oncologist would not do this biopsy, so perhaps breast surgeon could refer you to appropriate place. For piece of mind, seek a second opinion at a Comprehensive Breast Center, or an NCI designated Cancer Center in your area, even if you have to travel a bit. A mass on the liver needs to be evaluate further, and may put reconstruction on the back burner for now, but does not necessarily end the procedure in the future. Hope this helps, and best wishes. | ||
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