Newbe

Mikenh said:

I originally had a ct scan

I originally had a ct scan where they determined that there was a mass, and then a cat scan to rule out cancer in the torso (mainly lungs and liver). The MRI also provides the higher level of detail. So I think that an MRI would be appropriate to rule out cancer in other common parts of the body and to get more detail on your cancerous area. The MRI provides far more detail. I think that the cat scan does as well.

I also had an MRI requested by the surgeon for planning the surgery but it also ruled out spread.

They may set you up with one or more of the following specialists: oncologist, radiation oncologist, surgeon. The oncologist handles chemo, the radiation oncologist handles radiation and the surgeon handles surgery. One or more therapies may be involved depending on the details of your cancer and the MRI should provide more details for staging. Treatment is usually driven by staging. I know that it's awful waiting for answers but the results drive the treatment.

in our region PET-CT is advised to check the spread

MRI is more detailed if doctor's want more indept information.  CT scans show a lot and can usually pickup most spreads.  Being a flat polyp they can probably see the area more clearly.  Did they give you any indication about the original CT scan and why they want to do an MRI?  It's sometimes very difficult to get an insurance company to pay for MRI as it is very expensive vs a CT.  I'd ask the doctor what the results were from the previous scan.  I'm sorry that you are here.  This is a terrible place to be in the stage of your diagnosis - especially the knowing you have cancer, but not knowing what you have to face.  Make sure that you have someone go with you to all appointments so you have another set of ears.  We are a great group and can help you get through all of this.  Let us know what else you find out.

Kim

You don't tell how old you are!  I"m sure you are much younger than me.  And I have apparently beat it.  Was 77 when cancer discovered. Currently 86 and cancer free NED for last 8 years.  If i could beat it,so can you.  It may be a bumpy ride,but it is doable.  Good Luck!!

So sorry you are going through this diagnosis and surgery next steps. I also had a flat sessile polyp removed during a routine colonoscopy that was found to be cancerous which required surgery and follow up chemo. It is all very distressing.  As others have said the MRI is key for the surgeon to determine the approach to the surgery.  The MRI will provide detailed information and imaging about the tumor that you and your surgeon will discuss.  Keep in mind, that there could be different surgery approaches and follow-ups based on the polyp pathology, CT scan, MRI and potential surgery outcomes. I found it so helpful to have a prepared list of questions and my husband with me so we both heard the same thing and could ask follow up questions. 

Cindy