Too Little Treatment?

I worry I am not getting enough pro-active treatment? I had grade 1, stage 1b (39% invasive) uterine cancer removed via a davinci complete hysterectomy, 16 lymph nodes - negative, pelvic wash was neg as well. No add'l treatment beyond surgery was needed. I know, all pretty good news.

However, I am so worried about a recurrance. I have Dr. checks every 4 months however he does not believe in any additional tests, like a CT scan. While I was beyond happy that I did not need additional treatment, now I wonder are we being pro-active enough?

I would love to hear about other treatment plans for similar diagnosis. thank you

Comments

  • Songflower
    Songflower Member Posts: 608
    chemo Decisons
    What type is your cancer? Endometroid is easily cured. Serous, MMMT, and sarcoma need chemo even though the grad is low; a 1a is often treated with chemo. You need to find out the type and I would go for a second opinion to a Gyn Oncologist.

    Best Wishes, Diane
  • Double Whammy
    Double Whammy Member Posts: 2,832 Member

    chemo Decisons
    What type is your cancer? Endometroid is easily cured. Serous, MMMT, and sarcoma need chemo even though the grad is low; a 1a is often treated with chemo. You need to find out the type and I would go for a second opinion to a Gyn Oncologist.

    Best Wishes, Diane

    We have identical dx (if it's endometriod)
    and I worry sometimes, too. Like right now - waiting for Pap smear results. My follow-up is the same as yours, every 4 months. It's been a year since my surgery and I really do believe everything is fine, but sometimes I go to the dark side. I was uptight for my first follow up exam, my second I was perfectly fine, this last one had me real nervous for no apparent reasons. Of course, there's a small chance of some cells hiding out somewhere, but 95% of the time I don't even think about it anymore.

    It's sort of tough "just being observed" sometimes, but treatment is tougher and being a higher stage, grade, or type is more worrisome. Grade 1, Stage 1 endometroid adenocarcinomas are most often cured by surgery alone. Key word = "cured".

    If you know your type you could also check out the NCCN guildelines http://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/f_guidelines.asp

    And, of course, if you're nervous you can get a second opinion.

    Good luck.

    Suzanne