Should I Consult My Doctor Again Before Upcoming Surgery for Lymph Node?

Q: Should I Consult My Doctor Again Before Upcoming Surgery for Lymph Node?

Du Cheng / 27 years old / Male Hello A： Whether or not to undergo surgery is your own decision. 1. The tumor is still present. 2. It is uncertain whether the tumor is malignant; there is accompanying inflammation. The inflammation has improved, so t

I am scheduled for surgery next week, but the lump seems to no longer be painful?

From July to November, I experienced recurrent pain in the left lymph nodes.
Initially, I thought it was inflammation, but after visiting the ENT department at the hospital, a CT scan in mid-November revealed a lymph node mass measuring 1.5-2 cm in size in the left cervical area.
I also experienced pain in the nearby veins.
The doctor scheduled surgery for January 3rd to remove it.
However, today, December 27th, I woke up and noticed that the pain has decreased to a mild sensation with light pressure, but the mass is still present.
Should I make another appointment to have the doctor confirm whether surgery is still necessary, or can I wait until the day before hospitalization to discuss it with the doctor?

Du Cheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/27

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Du Cheng / 27 years old / Male
Hello A: Whether or not to undergo surgery is your own decision.

1.
The tumor is still present.

2.
It is uncertain whether the tumor is malignant; there is accompanying inflammation.
The inflammation has improved, so there is no pain, but whether it is malignant or benign still needs to be confirmed through surgery and pathology.

3.
If you have made your decision, please inform your physician immediately.

4.
Hospitalization should be considered carefully to avoid wasting medical resources.

Wishing you a Happy New Year, Dr.
Chen Si-Rong, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/12/27

More Info

It is understandable to feel anxious about your upcoming surgery, especially given your history of lymph node pain and the recent findings from your CT scan. Based on the information you've provided, it would be prudent to consult your doctor again before the scheduled surgery. Here are several reasons why this is advisable:
1. Current Symptoms: You mentioned that the lymph node is still present and that you are experiencing mild pain. While it is common for discomfort to decrease as inflammation resolves, any persistent or changing symptoms should be communicated to your healthcare provider. This could indicate that further evaluation is necessary before proceeding with surgery.

2. Surgical Decision-Making: Surgeons often make decisions based on the most current information available. If there are any changes in your condition, such as the size of the lymph node or the nature of your pain, your doctor may want to reassess whether surgery is still the best option. They might consider additional imaging or tests to ensure that surgery is appropriate.

3. Preoperative Assessment: It is standard practice for doctors to conduct a thorough preoperative assessment. This includes reviewing any new symptoms, imaging results, and lab tests. By consulting your doctor before the surgery, you can ensure that all relevant information is considered, which can help in planning the surgical approach and minimizing risks.

4. Anxiety and Clarity: If you have concerns or questions about the surgery, discussing them with your doctor can provide clarity and reduce anxiety. It’s important to feel confident and informed about your treatment plan, and your doctor can address any uncertainties you may have.

5. Timing of Consultation: While it might seem convenient to wait until the day before surgery to discuss your concerns, this could lead to unnecessary stress and last-minute changes. It’s better to address any issues as soon as possible, allowing time for your doctor to make any necessary adjustments to your care plan.

In summary, it is advisable to reach out to your doctor to discuss your current symptoms and any concerns you have regarding the upcoming surgery. This proactive approach can help ensure that you receive the best possible care and that any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan are made in a timely manner. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and open communication with your healthcare provider is key to achieving that.

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