CT Scan and Biopsy Results

Hello,

My dentist found a growth in my upper jaw during a routine examination and made an urgent referral to the local MAXFAC clinic. I'm in the Armed Forces, so although he local hospital was near where I am based, it's actually 4 hrs away from my family home.  The first referral was with a doctor on 3 Oct who did a visual exam and an X-Ray, and bloods. I then had a CT Scan on 7 Oct and a Biopsy on 20 Oct.  Last week I had an NHS text message telling me I had an appointment in Feb 26(!!) followed by another one a day later for 18 Nov (this year - next week).  The messages didn't have any other info. Today I managed to get through to my designated consultant's secretary, although I have never met or spoken to him, and she told me that all the results are now in and the appointment is with him.  Am I being paranoid in assuming that an 'in-person' appointment with a consultant means bad news? Thank you, and sorry if it's a daft question.

  • Hi Ant1975 and thank you for your post.

    It’s completely normal to feel a bit worried when you hear you’ve got an appointment with the consultant, especially if it’s in person.  Most consultants prefer to give results face to face.

    But having a face-to-face appointment doesn’t always mean bad news.

    Sometimes doctors like to talk things through in person so they can explain everything clearly and answer any questions you might have. It can also be a chance to plan the next steps together. Even non cancerous conditions sometimes need treatment.

    If you’re feeling anxious, it might help to bring someone with you or write down any questions you want to ask.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support

    It might help to talk things through with one of our nurses on the helpline. You can call for free on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

    I really hope you know more soon and that everything will be okay for you.

    Kind regards

    Tina