Mammocite or Brachytherapy

[Under Forty Pam]

I was just diagnosed this week with early stage breast cancer, my Dr. told me I was a good candidate for an alternative form of radiation since it is small, ductal insitu, and I am 39 yrs old.  I have been internet reading mixed messages on this new treatment but it promising to me, possibly enough to try it but I don't want to make a bad decision.  Normal radiation is 5-6 weeks and 5 days a week.  This type is 5 days, twice a day and then I would be done.  I have been weighing the pros and cons of traditional and experimental and need some advice and help to do what is best.  Has anyone had this done, is it too experimental still?  HELP and CONFUSED....

[Under Forty Pam]

I am ok, I am doing pretty well post lumpectomy on Friday, my husband is doing his best to keep me from lifting and doing all the things the dr. says to stop doing while I heal.  I am on pins and needles waiting for the test results which are due back today.  The Dr. says I have a 30-50% chance of needing a second surgery to get clear margins.

[boninclyde]

Please post to let us know you are OK.

[Under Forty Pam]

I have talked to 2 radiation oncologists now and neither will agree to the procedure due to my age, they said it is more proven on post-menoposal women.  My lumpectomy is scheduled for tomorrow, I am nervous and can't wait to get that overwith as the first step.  The doctor says I have a 30-50% chance of a second surgery to clear the margins, I thought that was very high and hope to beat some of the statistical data here soon.

[boninclyde]

Please keep us posted on your decision and your outcome.

[Phillyfish]

A friend of mine had the Brachytherapy about 18 months ago.  She had a .6 non invasive DCIS tumor.  She was very pleased with her treatment, especially the 5 days versus 33 days.  The longer treatment would have made for more missed work time and as a single woman was a concern. She was older than you (61).  That might be a condsideration.

[Under Forty Pam]

Avidhiker - Thanks for your suggestion, I did more research to make sure it was covered.  It is FDA approved.