spot found on left ovary

ladybug52

I am a 2year survivor of colon and rectal cancer,
now been to my gyno and he has found a spot on my left ovary, so a total hysterectomy is in order.
my sister has been battling ovarian cancer for the fast 3 years, on the third round of chemo,

any sugestions on how i should prepare for the surgery, and afterwards, my ca 125 level came to 16.5, does that suggest that cancer could grow there if left untreated.

thanks

ladybug

I am getting scared.

floridajo

dear Ladybug,
Since you have had colon cancer,I agree with your Dr,I wouldn't take a chance, especially when you have a sister with Ovca presently. My sister does not take any chances. They found a mass on her ovary, and because of me she had them removed. That was 3 years ago and all is still clear for her. Your ca-125 is in the normal range,and although not the most reliable test,that is good news. As far as the surgery goes,it all depends on which way it is done. laproscopy is one of the best ways to have it done. I would also have a gyn/onc either do the surgery or be in attendance. They are the specialists, and he'll be able to look around, and do what is neccesary if it is found to be cancer. My sister had a gyn.onc there for the surgery,and if it wasn't for the different tests he did,we would have not known she had cancer cells in there,my sister is a stage 1c. So that is another very important tip I can offere you. Good luck,I'm sorry to hear about your sister,and I'll keep you both in prayer. (((hugz)))>>Joanne

lindachris

It is my understanding that the preferred protocol among gynecological oncologists is hysterectomy when cancer is found on the ovaries. There also seems to be strong preference for a gynecological oncologist to do the surgery, and as noted, look around. Ours literally felt around within the abdomen wall and noted that cancer when it manifests itself in the peritoneal cavity feels like "sand". So these folks know what to look for, whereas a regular gynecologist might not necessarily have that experience. I know our gynecologist did the initial surgery laparoscopically and broke the tumor. That is not the result you want. And that is probably why gynecological oncologists prefer removing the organs entirely. The hysterectomy itself takes a few hours, then it takes a few days typically to recover in the hospital, for your tummy to start working again, etc. Then it's "go easy," no lifting etc when you get home, so having help around the house can be crucial. We wish you well in everything.

saundra

I would definitely have a gyn/onc do the surgery with your history. Not every ovca makes the ca 125 go up. (((HUGS and PRAYERS))