Lung Nodules

Hi Jules064

Welcome back , as I was reading your post the same question was jumping through my mind . The best thing we did was consult with a thoracic surgeon who knows exactly what is achievable. You are entitled to a second opinion! Are they 3 to 5 mm ? 

Bit of background, my mum had three nodules arrive at the same time , only one was cancerous. They watched my mum’s grow over two years and it was only when it reached 8 mm that they wanted to know exactly what it was as it had just doubled its size . When they are very small it is harder to get uptake with a PET scan and also I think they have to get to a certain size for the surgeon too . This is roughly what I remember and definitely am no dr . Just sharing ! The thoracic surgeon also said until it went to pathology they would still not be able to confirm what it is ! I am wondering if part of the issue is the fact they are so small but definitely one to get more information on .

Radio frequency ablation like surgery comes with a criteria but this was also mentioned by mum’s team so you might like ask about that also .

My rule of thumb was to consult with oncologist regarding chemotherapy and specialist surgeons regarding the organ involved . My mum’s original oncologist wanted her to only just chemo for her liver mets but when we asked the liver unit they had a surgical option . At least you know exactly why when you ask them directly .

Take care ,

Court 

Hi Court. Thanks for your reply. I’m frustrated I didn’t ask more questions when I met with my oncologist. I certainly have more to find out and more questions to ask. My understanding is that they are very small at the moment which may explain the watch and wait. I’m going to try and get hold of her Secretary this week. 
it feels like I’m not worth the effort of more treatment and I’m just been fobbed off. I’m realising that you have to fight!

Hi Jules064,

I seem to be in a similar situation to you. I had secondary bowel tumour removal surgery in June and have been told I have lung mets. 4mm and slow growing. That was why originally I was refused HIPEC surgery at Basingstoke hospital in Dec last year.

I know what you mean about fighting for  help and treatment as I feel I have been doing that all along. 

I have a CT scan next Monday and won't see the oncologist until the end of Sept. It seems so long to wait.

You should definitely go back and ask the questions you have. Do you have a colorectal nurse who can help you get some answers. 

Mine are quite helpful and if they don't know the answer then they will go to the Dr's to find out. 

Hi LouLoubelle64. Sorry for not replying sooner. I’ve spoken to my colorectal nurse this week. I went through various questions with her and explained that I feel as though they’ve just given up on me. My chemo is now palliative but I hear of people who have chemo and the nodules shrink and they can have surgery. She was very reassuring and took on board what I was saying. I’m not prepared to give up without a fight and I feel like that’s what I have to do. Otherwise it’s just a case of chemo until it stops working and then you just take your chances! 
Good luck with your scan on Monday.