Seeking Advice: Meeting with Surgical Oncologist for Liver Lesions

Hi there, thank you for sharing what you’re going through. I know how heavy it must feel to process news like this, and I’m really glad you reached out. Questions you might ask the surgical oncologist: -Can you walk me through your interpretation of the MRI and pathology findings? -What are the goals of surgery in my case and are there non-surgical options to consider? -How experienced are you with surgeries involving liver lesions from this type of cancer? -Will other specialists (like a medical oncologist or interventional radiologist) be part of my treatment planning? -What are the potential risks or side effects of surgery? -What will recovery look like, and how will it impact my quality of life? When choosing the right oncologist or care team: -Look for someone who listens and explains things in a way that makes sense to you. -Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion, especially at an academic cancer center or NCI-designated cancer center if that’s an option for you. -Ask whether your case will be reviewed by a multidisciplinary tumor board. -Lastly, you are absolutely allowed to take notes, bring someone with you, or even record the conversation (with permission) it can help you remember details later. You’re not alone, and we’re here for you. Please keep us posted and feel free to ask questions anytime. Sending you strength as you head into this next phase. 💛Suzanne (Community Moderator)

Suzanne, I appreciate this head’s up.i have a very strong faith that all will be well. i will update the community after the visit. Best wishes to this community.

Finding the right surgical oncologist is an important step, and asking thoughtful questions during your consultation can help you feel more confident about your care plan. Consider asking about their experience with similar cases, treatment options available to you, potential risks and benefits, and what the recovery process might look like. It's also helpful to ask about their approach to coordinating with your other healthcare providers and how they handle follow-up care. Trust your instincts about feeling comfortable with their communication style and whether they take time to address your concerns thoroughly.