If you have been diagnosed with appendix cancer, it is vital to seek a second opinion from a specialist who has seen and treated numerous cases. Doing so will ensure that you make the most informed and advantageous decisions when it comes to your treatment. As appendix cancer is a rare form of cancer, it is likely the doctor who diagnosed you has not seen many other cases of it. Having a specialist who is knowledgeable in treating the disease can help you make the right choices for your situation.
A second opinion provides an alternative perspective on your diagnosis and options to consider. A different specialist may either validate or potentially challenge the initial recommendations. In some cases, a consensus between specialists also provides more confidence in the chosen treatment plan.
Going through the process of a second opinion will likely make you think of new questions you have about your diagnosis and options. You can bring those questions back to your initial specialist to get more information to feel fully informed and prepared to make decisions about your treatment.
The most important thing is that you feel confident and at ease with the recommendations regarding your appendix cancer diagnosis and next steps. A second opinion can help you achieve that.
Why you should see a PMP specialist
I can’t say it enough… are you dealing with a PMP specialist? If not, I would say you must.
I was misdiagnosed by my first surgical oncologist
When soneone new to the group posts, you very often see multiple members encourage then to seek an appendix cancer specialist.
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Why is HIPEC controversial?
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References
Multicentre study of the learning curve and surgical performance of ...
Kusamura S, Moran BJ, Sugarbaker PH, et al. Multicentre study of the learning curve and surgical performance of cytoreductive surgery with intraperitoneal chemotherapy for Pseudomyxoma peritonei. British Journal of Surgery. 2014;101(13):1758-1765. doi:10.1002/bjs.9674
Learning curve of combined modality treatment in peritoneal surface disease.
Smeenk RM, Verwaal VJ, Zoetmulder FA. Learning curve of combined modality treatment in peritoneal surface disease. British Journal of Surgery. 2007;94(11):1408-1414. doi:10.1002/bjs.5863
Written by: Pseudomyxoma Survivor editorial team
Updated: May 14, 2023