'Waiting for results

Hi on the 6th I had surgery for bowel cancer, I’ve been waiting to receive results from tumor removal to see if I’m going to need chemo. Do you know how long it usually takes for results to come through. I’ve tried to get info from hospital but can’t get any response. Thank you

  • Hi Rose 1965 and thank you for your post.

    I am sorry to hear about your  recent surgery bowel cancer and I can appreciate that this is a worrying time right now.

    The time it takes to receive  results can vary between different NHS Trusts due to various factors. In most cases, it takes between two to three weeks to receive results, but some people have experienced longer waits. Shortages of consultant pathologists who interpret results can contribute to delays. Additionally, in some cases, a second pathologist may need to examine the sample to confirm the initial findings, causing further delays. Some  specimens may also be sent to larger, specialized pathology laboratories for analysis, resulting in longer wait times depending on the lab's current sample volume.

    If you are concerned about waiting too long for information or to start treatment, you can reach out to your hospital specialist through their secretary, or contact your nurse specialist if you have one.

    If you haven’t already done so, consider contacting the hospital’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) to voice your concerns.

    If the hospital has a Macmillan Information Centre, you may also find additional information there.

    I know waiting when you are worried is stressful but hopefully you’ll know more soon.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5 pm Monday to Friday.

     Kind regards

    Tina