How to Seek Help for Gastrointestinal Issues: Special Consultation Options

Q: How to Seek Help for Gastrointestinal Issues: Special Consultation Options

Hello： <br>1. <br>Submucosal tumors of the stomach are generally difficult to obtain tissue samples for accurate diagnosis through endoscopic biopsy, making it challenging to determine whether they are benign or malignant. <br>It is recommended that your father consider consultin

How can I seek assistance? Is there a special consultation room for patients to prepare reports?

Dear Dr.
Yuan,
Hello.
For the past six months, my father has been suffering from gastric bleeding due to a tumor.
Because of this, he has sought treatment at multiple hospitals, but he has been unable to receive proper care.
His temper has become increasingly irritable, and I am unsure how to assist him.
For example, every time my father changes hospitals, he has to undergo gastrointestinal endoscopy with biopsy, and he has requested copies of the reports.
However, the doctors do not consider the previous tests and insist on repeating them.
My father wants to understand the contents of the examination reports but is being ignored, which has led to him becoming more argumentative at home.
How can I seek assistance? Is there a special consultation room for patients to discuss their reports? The doctors have explained his condition as follows: the tumor is located in the submucosal layer (deep layer), not just on the surface, making it impossible to definitively determine if it is benign or malignant, although it is likely not malignant.
The tumor is approximately 3 cm and shows signs of growth.
If removal is necessary, it can be done via laparoscopic surgery or traditional surgery.
Which option is more suitable, with lower recurrence and risk?
Thank you very much!
Sincerely,
Yanxiang

Yan Xiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/04/10

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello:
1.
Submucosal tumors of the stomach are generally difficult to obtain tissue samples for accurate diagnosis through endoscopic biopsy, making it challenging to determine whether they are benign or malignant.
It is recommended that your father consider consulting Dr.
Wang Hsiu-Po at National Taiwan University for an endoscopic ultrasound, which can directly scan the tumor.
If necessary, a biopsy can be performed under ultrasound guidance.
If malignancy is suspected, surgical removal is advised.
If the tumor appears benign, medication may be used to see if it can prevent further bleeding.
However, if there are recurrent episodes of bleeding, surgery is still recommended.
The choice of surgical approach depends on the tumor's location, size, presence of metastasis, and the surgeon's experience.
Generally, laparoscopic surgery offers the advantages of smaller incisions and quicker recovery, but it is rarely performed for gastric surgeries, so further consultation with a surgeon is necessary.
2.
There is no report consultation room; only physicians can explain the medical condition and report contents.
If there are any questions, it is best to ask the attending physician directly.

Sincerely, Dr.
Yuan Hong-Dao, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2006/04/10

More Info

When dealing with gastrointestinal issues, especially complex cases like your father's, it can be quite challenging to navigate the healthcare system. Here are some steps and considerations that may help you seek the necessary assistance and ensure your father receives the appropriate care.

Understanding the Condition
Your father's situation involves a submucosal tumor in the gastrointestinal tract, which complicates the diagnosis and treatment. Since the tumor is located beneath the mucosal layer, it may not be easily accessible for standard biopsy procedures, making it difficult for doctors to definitively classify it as benign or malignant. The fact that it has shown growth is concerning and warrants careful monitoring and possibly intervention.

Seeking Specialized Care
1. Consult a Gastroenterologist: If you haven't already, seek out a gastroenterologist who specializes in gastrointestinal tumors. They can provide a more in-depth evaluation and may have access to advanced diagnostic tools that can help clarify the nature of the tumor.

2. Multidisciplinary Team: Consider consulting a multidisciplinary team that includes not only gastroenterologists but also surgical oncologists and pathologists. This team approach can provide a comprehensive view of the situation and help in making informed decisions about treatment options.

3. Second Opinions: If your father has not received satisfactory answers or treatment from the current healthcare providers, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another hospital or a specialized cancer center. They may have different perspectives or treatment protocols that could be more effective.

Communication with Healthcare Providers
1. Documentation: Keep a detailed record of all medical visits, tests, and treatments. This documentation can help new doctors understand your father's medical history without needing to repeat tests unnecessarily.

2. Requesting Reports: If your father wants to see his medical reports, he has the right to request copies of his medical records, including endoscopy reports and pathology results. You can assist him in making these requests formally, either in writing or through patient portals if available.

3. Patient Advocacy: If your father is feeling frustrated or angry, it may help to have a patient advocate or a family member accompany him to appointments. This person can help communicate his concerns and ensure that his questions are addressed.

Treatment Options
1. Surgical Considerations: The decision between laparoscopic surgery and traditional open surgery will depend on various factors, including the tumor's size, location, and the overall health of your father. Laparoscopic surgery is generally less invasive and may offer quicker recovery times, but the surgeon's expertise and the tumor's characteristics will ultimately guide this decision.

2. Monitoring and Follow-Up: If immediate surgery is not deemed necessary, regular monitoring through imaging studies and endoscopies may be recommended to track the tumor's growth and any changes in symptoms.

Emotional Support
Dealing with a serious health issue can take a toll on both the patient and their family. Encourage your father to express his feelings and frustrations, and consider seeking support from counseling services or support groups for patients with similar conditions. This emotional support can be crucial in managing the stress associated with his diagnosis.

Conclusion
Navigating the complexities of gastrointestinal issues, especially with a potential tumor, requires persistence and a proactive approach. By seeking specialized care, maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, and ensuring emotional support, you can help your father receive the care he needs. Remember, it’s essential to advocate for his health and well-being throughout this process.

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