Scans after treatment

Hi Bramble22 I never had a scan before treatment nor been offered one after (except heart cos of herceptin) 

When I had annual mammogram I asked about scan on surgery side but was told they do not do that only mammo on good side , and I should just check for any changes myself .

Really how would I know ? it still a changing area and can give nerve pain even after a year  I do think it should be done automatically. 

I know chest wall was checked to 10 mm rather than two mm during surgery (I asked )  so if that was necessary why not scan later ?? 

Hope you well 

Hi Margaret, yes it puzzles me why we are not offered scans after treatment. I guess we will all just have to be extra vigilant! x

I was wondering if I would be scanned again, but it's now  down to annual mammograms. However, I have received advice that in the case of certain symptoms I can refer myself back via the Macmillan Nurses. 

Hi

I read this thread with interest, and I was quite surprised.  Is it really the case that the breast that had the surgery is not given an annual mammogram or ultrasound?  If it is the case then, how is recurrence within that breast detected?  The medical literature repeatedly talks about ipsilateral breast cancer recurrence so why would this not be scanned for?  Is this the rule?  Have I misunderstood?

If it is the rule, is it because after the trauma of surgery and internal scar tissue and change, small lumps/tumours cannot be differentiated and identified?

D

Hi

Just thought I would let u know I had my first annual mammogram after diagnosis and had both breasts done just as normal and all good.

I've been given the understanding that both breasts will be involved. 

Sorry if I did not make that clear earlier. 

I am still a little confused.  From the comments, it seems 2:1 that both breasts receive a mammogram.

So is Northener's experience, not the norm?

D

I had my 1st annual mammogram in July it was only of my good boob. Nothing done on my SMX side. Was told the department now does a monitor it yourself approach and to contact the BCN through the portal if I had concerns - that would be fine if I could access the portal , they seem to have given access to current patients but not to ‘old patients’.

It must depend on which NHS area you live in? 

Hi Dedalus 

Sorry it wasn't clear I had mastectomy so only one breast for mammograms  surgery side flat so would need  scan .

I believe no scan is normal in most areas . The confusion is mammogram is done on lumpectomy breast as breast tissue left .