I know for sure we have a choice in the surgeries and/or treatments. The tumor I have presents itself in only 800 people per year in the USA. Having the tumor in the lower extremities, trunk, and upper extremities would seem to make a difference. This is my dilema. I have only been able to find one report in a Medical Journal that shows results for this particular cancer in the arm like mine is. There were only 4 people in this study.
My wife is an RN at a hospital and we have access to all of the journals studied by Doctors at the School of Medicine in our city. Very little has been published on this type of tumors and when I research the references used I am finding old data. Be aware. The treatment and cure rate for many types of cancers increases all the time.
As to the surgery I am facing: I am to have 2 of the 3 triceps removed in my right arm after radiation if it is possible. It might come down to having all of the triceps removed. Disability on this arm may be lifelong. Like all cancer patients I'll do whatever it takes to save the arm. The tumor is low-grade, superficial, >5 cm, but deadly. Any response is appreciated.
Your fellow warrior and friend,
RPonce
To Cherlie: You better believe as patients we have a choice!!
Rponce, how long will the arm be disabled? I would Google this and find out what others have done and the outcomes before I made a decison to NOT have the surgery. Good Luck and God Bless.
I agree that you need to have radiation first and then surgery. But as patients doe we really have a choice?