What now?

[pdtmt7498]

I don't know where to begin with my questions. A year ago my CA125 (done because of family history) was 35, in April 55, a month later 63. US #1 said all normal, US #2 w/ my OB/GYN showed calcification. US #3 (Dopperler) w/ 2nd opinion OB/GYN showed "hyperechoic mass" and indicated necessity for surgery. Chose to go w/ doc from 2nd opinion because he practices in a hospital more geared toward dealing with ovarian cancer. I find out through my primary that there is a gynonc on "backup". Saw the doc for preop today. I've been having more symptoms and a sore throat, and he didn't seem much concerned. Didn't check my throat or do pelvic exam. Started talking about fibroids and his gut feeling this is endometriosis. Check my old incision from c'sections (I've had 3) and said he'd use that. He did order a chest xray and basic blood work, but no CT scan or CA125. Called my primary and scheduled appt. I have strep throat and my lymph nodes are enlarged enough that primary concluded my "pain" is due more to that than the strep. She checked only those in neck.  We don't know yet for sure if it will postpone surgery, but likely will. I'm so frustrated. This guy came so highly recommended from so many sources . . . I'm wondering why? Should I use this opportunity to find a different doc and insist on a gynonc? My primary tried to get me into a gynonc for another opinion already, but even she could not get an appt for me until after the surgery date. What should I do now? Why do these things always seem to happen either right before a weekend or holiday?

[rmarie]

Cancel the surgery use the time and get to see a Gyn/Onc listen to your family practice physician.  If it is cancer all the research shows that they improve your chances of survival, and with OC that is very important.  Don't wait do it now.

[pdtmt7498]

I'm really leaning that way now.  Just got a call from the doc doing the surgery.  He confirmed the need to postpone surgery.  I am seeing my primary Thursday am and will discuss using this opportunity to get gynonc to do surgery.  On the phone, I stressed how frustrating this has been, and though I know it is necessary to postpone, I've been through enough waiting and frustration already.  He emphasized again that he really thinks this will turn out to be endometriosis, which is only now being brought up.  He bases this opinion on the CA125 level and minimizes the findings from the doppler US, which he himself ordered and used to warrant scheduling the surgery in the first place.  My regular obgyn is on vacation until July 13, so I can't even get another opinion from him, and I don't feel comfortable leaving it to his PA.  He does have a gynonc in his practice, but in a smaller hospital that I don't necessarily feel is equipped for dealing with ovca.

[rmarie]

good for you, go for it, I was terrified at the oncologist part, but I am very glad I was moved over to him by my Gyn.  It is comforting to know you have  the best possible care with the Gyn/Onc

[lactac1224]

Sounds very confusingl.I think everything happens for a reason.  If your doctor already had a gyn/onc on call why not have the gyn/onc do the surgery?  My first surgery I consulted with a gyn/onc and she was on call during the surgery because she believed I had a dermoid and it would not be cancer.  My second surgery I went with a gyn because I did not need the gyn/onc before.  This time it was cancer and they had to call in a gyn/onc.  He was terrible and did not biopy all he should have.  

It does not hurt to see a gyn/onc first.  Take their advice over a gyn.  They know much more about cancer and have more experience.  I know how hard it is to wait for the answers.  Just realize that this gives you a chance to do this the right way.  Also remember that the chances of an ovarian cyst being cancer are less than 1%.

Try to relax (you can't talk to anyone today anyway) and enjoy the holiday!  

Best of luck!!!
Laura :)