Ablation Kidney Cancer

Hi jomogg welcome to the forum..as a fellow retired SRN I can totally empathise with your post. I think it is very much dependant on where you are in the  country as to how well the services work for us as patients and it sounds like all the different discussions have left you feeling very excluded..Can they do the operation with another form of anaesthetic rather than a ga as is being suggested.. Not sure if that's of any help at all but sending very best wishes your way whatever YOU decide to do. Gail xxx

It can indeed be a rough ride these days. It seems we have to advocate for ourselves, chase up checkups, and even ask for any support and follow-up at all from our own GPs. It is exhausting and it leaves one feeling very vulnerable. I know from my own experiences. I would say that you should ring the urology team and say you need to talk with someone and have your questions answered. You cannot give consent without it being fully informed.. and you are not feeling fully informed. I am about to start on a similar process as I have an appointment for an op that they have decided I need having found a new tumour. Not seen or spoken to a consultant at all.. no chance to ask about alternatives or potential outcome if I say no to further treatment. Good luck.. do pursue answers. Let us know x

Many Thanks to you both for your kindness & support. I think fear is my greatest issue. If I don't get better accountability & support from the Hospital I'm going to defer my surgery. Some Hospitals do it under local anaesthetic which would be great I think ! 

Hi Jomogg

Sorry to read about your difficulties and frustration. 

Just wanted to say that there have been several people posting in these forums, who cannot have a general anaesthetic, for various reasons. Some have had quite 'big' surgery, by having nerve blocks. I'm sure, if your team are really determined, they will find an alternative to a GA! You may have to push for this. 

Can you not ask for a second opinion, or to be referred to a different hospital, if you don't get anywhere with your current team?

Like TillyV says, we have to advocate for ourselves. It shouldn't be that way!!

Hope things go more smoothly for you soon

xxx Kate