Hi,
I am 8 weeks post radiotherapy for SCC T2 N0 HPV+ on my right tonsil.
I had my first post treatment meeting last week with my ENT consultant. We had a brief discussion about how I was getting on and then he felt my neck and had a good look in my mouth.
He said he was pleased with how everything was looking and then went on to say that he would see me in another 6 weeks and explained a bit about how I would be monitored over the next 5 years with the frequency of visits decreasing over time.
After that conversation he asked if I had any questions, to which I answered with asking about when my final scan would be done and that I’d thought it would be round about the 16 week mark. He advised that they do not do any further scans and that I would just be monitored visually by him.
Having read others experiences there always seems to be talk of a final scan confirming the all clear?
I’m a bit concerned now. Is it normal to just have visual checks? Should I be pushing for a scan?
I’ve no reason to think that everything isn’t ok but I had kind of put my hopes on getting a firm confirmation that all nasties were gone!
I’d appreciate any advice that you could give.
Thanks,
Caroline
Hi Caroline, I did actually have an MRI about five months post treatment; but having said that the fact remains that (for me) over nearly eight years, multiple scans of every type on two separate cancer experiences not one scan has ever shown evidence of cancer. Mine have exclusively been found by a consultant physically examining me.
So I'd say that, while I was pleased that my MRI came back clear, I really don't think there's anything (sadly) more accurate than the endoscope in expert hands. Pre-treatment scans to check for spread are obviously very useful but I really wouldn't over-think the lack of one now.
Metastatic SCC diagnosed 8th October 2013. Modified radical neck dissection November, thirty-five radiotherapy fractions with 2xCisplatin chemo Jan/Feb 2014. Recurrence on larynx diagnosed July 2020 so salvage laryngectomy in September 2020.
Hi Caroline
I had a PET/CT at 16 weeks. My trust used to do MRIs till they had access to PET. Nevertheless I'll echo what Mike said. Most recurrences are in the first year and picked up by visual exam or patients reporting symptoms rather than scans . At T2N0 HPV you are low risk
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
Good luck and keep in touch if you’re up to it
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
Good evening Caroline, i think a lot depends on the consultants some will do scans while some do not feel the need for it, as MikeO said they say they can detect any changes by feel and visual examination. Remember if you think there is something not quite right then dont wait until your next check-up as they will normally see you straight away if you have any concerns. Its like any illness your body normally tells you something is not right, i.e, sore throat, colds and flu, aches and pains. Its great to hear your consultant is happy with your progress, all the best with your recovery, take care.
Chris x
Its sometimes not easy but its worth it !
