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What is the reasoning of not telling the patient a biopsy appeared to remove all or most of the DCIS, before making treatment decision?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Charlottesville, VA

My surgeon did not go over this with me. Or even use the term DCIS. Instead, it was just you have cancer, but we caught it early and surgery provides a 98% survival rate?

June 3
 · 
Reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

Change surgeons. There is no reason. You deserve an explanation so that you can evaluate options. Also, there is no panic to get this done asap. Cancer takes time to develop . Plus DCIS is not real cancer yet. It hasn’t come out of the ducts. There’s no need to panic to get this out. Take time to actually understand your grade and the real risk, because more and more research is coming out that not all DCIS requires immediate removal. Only mostly grade 3. So check on this and get second opinions. This surgeon is just trying to catch you before you figure out all your options. Do not fall for the fear mongering. Remember, it’s all a business for them.

June 3
A MyBCTeam Member

Until these things are actionable, the profit machine known as integrated medicine will continue to turn. Although efficient, I felt marched along, moved from point to point... as if the surgical path was set.

June 4
A MyBCTeam Member

I agree with you all now... unfortunately at the time, I trusted the doctor and team and followed their advice. I have changed to a different hospital for my follow up care after my dmx and reconstruction surgery. Had I known ... I would have opted for watchful waiting. But I Didn't know. nor was I given a path to learn more about it. No nurse navigator, etc. Now after research, I know it. and I am not amused or grateful. I am thankful that God healed me before the surgery happened.

June 4
A MyBCTeam Member

Hi Rhonda, I was very fortunate that the surgeon (she is a breast specialist- so only does surgeries related to breast care) was the one that went over the biopsy results with me, and she was very thorough. All the results also went to my PCP who was the one who referred me- and she also went over the results. If you are comfortable with your oncologist's expertise you can always press for more details, If you are uncomfortable with his interpersonal skills and you do not feel he/she is willing or able to communicate more openly and clearly, you may be better served with a different doctor. Wishing you all the best! Hugs!

June 3
A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member
@A MyBCTeam Member

I agree with TeTo.
You need a Dr. that explains everything.

June 3 (edited)

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