Kidney. Cancer first appointment with urologist

Hi 

In September 24 my GP found hidden blood in my urine during a routine test, I had some gynae investigations which were all clear. On 22nd October I was refereed to urology on the fast track, I had a cystocopy which was clear. The doc who did the cystoscopy said tgere was still blood in my sample and that see would send me for a scan of my pelvis and they then found a small suspicious area which they thought was cancer only right kidney. That was 29th nov. My MDT met on 9th December and I had to wait until last week, 16th Jan to see the urologist, That’s three months from referral. It seems like I’ve waited ages. Is that normal? 

At my appointment on Thursday I met the urologist. He didn’t introduce himself so I only know his name from my clinic letter. He told me he believes I have a small kidney cancer of 1.2cm on my right kidney, He said treatment options are partial nephrectomy or ablation. I adjed for pros/ cons of both and he told me to read the leaglets  that the cancer nurse then gave me. She then told me to go home, read the leaflets  and then email her with my treatment decision. They said they didn’t know the waiting times for either procedure. 
My husband and I feel shell shocked after the appointment. I felt like I got minimal explanation, advice or empathy. I’m unsure where to go next and wonder g what other people’s experience had been. 
I am in a big city and this urologist is one of the best in the country  apparently, 

  • Hello Lisbrum,

    I'm sorry to hear about this and that you feel you didn't get the explanation you expected at your appointment. We have guidance around the nephrectomy procedure and  
    microwave and radiofrequency ablation, which I hope will help towards you making a decision. We also have a team of cancer nurses if you'd like to speak to them on our free helpline. You can call them on 0808 800 4040 and the helpline is open from 9 to 5, Monday to Friday.

    While this experience may not have been what you hoped for, do raise any concerns you have with your medical team at future appointments, as it's important to ensure you feel informed and that your concerns are addressed at every step of your treatment. 

    Best wishes to you,

    Moderator Anastasia