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Joined: 11/17/2009
Posts: 3
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My mother has been diagnosed with lung cancer in her left upper lobe, very small, about the size of a Greek olive, per the thoracic surgeon. Unfortunately, she has emphysema and her PFTs have ruled her out for surgery. He has recommended CK as a good alternative for her. There is some question of whether she should have a Fine Needle Biopsy to get a definitive tissue diagnosis, or whether the risks are too great given her 50% or less current lung function. Do most patients have a tissue diagnosis or are the results of the CT with growing nodule and positive PET scan enough? We are waiting for an appointment at the Cancer Care center here in Brevard County that has the CyberKnife system. Just looking for some general information to keep us going in the meantime. The waiting is the hardest part! Thank you - Meg
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Joined: 10/10/2008
Posts: 2346
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We generally get a biopsy but not if it puts the patient at serious risk.
Clinton A. Medbery, III, M.D.
St. Anthony Hospital Cyberknife Center
(405) 272-7311
buddy@swrads.org
Mail to:
Clinton A. Medbery, III, M.D.
Southwest Radiation Oncology
1011 N. Dewey Ave. #101
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
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Joined: 11/17/2009
Posts: 3
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Thank you for the information. I guess we will have to go back to the pulmonologist and discuss the biopsy options and her risk. I certainly would love to have a definitive diagnosis before proceeding, but as you said, not if the risk is too great to her.
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Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 928
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It is generally best to know what you are dealing with. Nonetheless, when necessary, we will also treat without a biopsy, especially with a strongly positive PET scan.
Jerome J. Spunberg, M.D., FACR, FACRO
CyberKnife Center of Palm Beach
jspunberg@radiationoncologyinstitute.com
(561) 799-2828 Radiation Oncology Institute
10335 N. Military Trail, Suite C
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
(561) 624-1717
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Joined: 11/17/2009
Posts: 3
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We are meeting Friday morning with the radiation oncologist at the Cancer Care Center here in Brevard County. Hopefully she will have good news and CK will be an option for my mom. Keeping my fingers crossed!
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Joined: 10/10/2008
Posts: 2346
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Add toes
Clinton A. Medbery, III, M.D.
St. Anthony Hospital Cyberknife Center
(405) 272-7311
buddy@swrads.org
Mail to:
Clinton A. Medbery, III, M.D.
Southwest Radiation Oncology
1011 N. Dewey Ave. #101
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
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