Oncology Consult (8 June 09)

We met with an oncologist and surgeon from the Dana-Farber Sarcoma Center. All records related to this had been forwarded to them. After filling out more reams of paperwork, meeting the administrator, meeting the PA to go over the current details, we finally met the oncologist. He had a very laid-back style. We really liked him and his "bedside manner". According to him, Dana-Farber's current thinking is to watch and wait with primary angiosarcoma of the breast. There is no evidence that chemotherapy will prevent a recurrence. They believe it is better to scan frequently to catch any reoccurrance as soon as possible. He did say "...but if you will sleep better by are doing chemo (aka doing something), we can do that too.." My retort was "first do no harm". We did take their literature describing the various chemo options for reference.

Eventually, the surgeon joined us with his medical students. His bedisde manner was less...polished. We discussed the planned surgery. He thought the sentinel node biopsy was "totally unnecessary surgery". We did discuss what he thought was appropriate: removal of as much tissue border, including skin, as possible and removing the fascia on the underlying muscle. Colin noted everything for a final discussion with my surgeon the following morning. Once again, the best possible news that there could be, given the situation.