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Accuracy of cancer polyp position
I had my first colonoscopy a few months. A surgeon took biopsy of three polyps during the colonoscopy. The pathology results stated one of them is invasive adenocarcinoma involving the cauterized margin. Unfortunately he did not mark the position of this cancer polyp. So I had a flexible sigmoidoscopy for him to mark the position. First colonoscopy he stated its position is at 10cm from the anal. However he now stating its position at 17cm from anal and he tattooed the position at 17cm. He told my husband I there’s nothing to worry about so enjoy your long vacation all the testing can wait.
Came back from vacation and I met a referred colorectal Dr and he said he will verify the position during sigmoidoscopy. My concern is how is he able to verify the position when the surgeon who performed colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy couldn’t even know the position and changing his mind from 10cm to 17cm.
Since colonoscopy was recorded can he watch the video to help determine the position? I’m deeply concerned the colorectal Dr wants to remove affected area but without knowing the accurate position of cancer, it’s a huge risk.
Appreciate any inputs
Thank you.
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These are good questions, that only your doctor can answer. I find that voicing my concerns, & asking the doctor directly, is helpful to get accurate answers. Let him know of your concern about the change in position. Ask how he can differentiate the cancerous area from the other polyps removed. Ask if he watches the recording of the prior study. I think you will get answers that put you at ease. If not, a second opinion may be in order. Good luck.
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2 ReactionsI would definitely get a second opinion! Good luck
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2 Reactions@sos2000, your experience sounds unsettling. I agree with @amyb5 that you're asking all the right questions.
It can be a challenge to find the location if the polyps were particularly small and/or if the colon isn't completely clear. But I share your thoughts that you want to be sure that not only the polyps were removed, but also a clean margin.
Have you had the second sigmoidoscopy? Are you being seen at a center of excellence in cancer care? How are you doing?