after surgery

[whirleee218]

One week ago I had a bilaterel mastectomy. Today I went to see my surgeon for the results of the lymph nodes. She told me my right side removal of 4 nodes was negative but the left side she found two nodes that were positive. Being in shock again I could not think than of the many questions I have now going through my head. I asked her if I will be again receiving chemo, she said its possible. My question is, dont they remove the infected nodes when doing the mastectomy surgery? If they took them out than why more chemo? Will I need more surgery after chemo? How will they know if the chemo kills the cancer cells in those nodes left inside me?

[japdip]

They do remove the nodes but when they are found to be positive for cancer Chemo is usually a part of the treatment. This of course will be determined by your Oncologist. All test results will be considered and a treatment plan formulated for your particular case. Any and all treatment after surgery is done to eradicate any cancer cells that may remain and also to aid in the prevention of recurrance.

[whirleee218]

thank you so much for answering my questions

[Mukenhimer]

Think of the cancer in your lymph nodes as footprints through an exit door.  They check the nodes to see if there are cancer cells found there and, if there are, it's an indication a few cells may have migrated elsewhere. Your lymph nodes are like little highways to other parts of your body. I know someone also used to tell me to think of chemo as "little soldiers" going into your entire system and killing any cancer ANYWHERE.  The fact that you were lymph positive could also mean you may need radiation to focus treament on that area specifically.  Don't listen to your surgeon about adjuvant treatment because ONLY your oncologist can advise what treatment you'll need based on your final path report.  (sorry for all the analogies but they seem to work for me).

Hope this helps.