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Waiting Time.

Paddingtons-hat
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Hi all, I have been told I require a total duct excision due to bloody discharge from right nipple. I am unable to feel any lump and mammogram and sonogram are clear but the consultant feels it is the only way to rule out cancer and should it be down to other causes ie papilloma etc surgery would be the best option.  I did have a cyst drained from the same breast 18 months ago. I am very worried but understand and am glad they are being so thorough. 

My question may seem silly but my initial consultation where I was informed I would need an excision was on the 10th. The Dr told me the follow up letter will take a few days and surgery within 4 weeks. 

I called today as can not see any follow up letter in my NHS app. The admin staff was great but told me they could not see any letter or referral and gave me the number for the surgeons secretary. The number rings out with no option to leave a voice mail.

my question is how long did was your wait between consultation and surgery? I don’t want to be a pain by calling etc if this is a normal wait etc as I know everyone is very busy. I am just worried as you can imagine. 
many thanks 

  • Hi Paddingtons-hat,

    I noticed your post hasn’t received a reply yet, so I just wanted to stop by, say hello, and welcome you to our forum.

    I can understand how frustrating and worrying it must be to be in this uncertain position. That said, it sounds like your team is being very thorough, which is reassuring, even though the waiting part is never easy.

    If you haven’t heard back soon and are feeling unsure, don’t hesitate to give them a gentle follow-up call. They’re used to these kinds of questions, and it’s important that you feel supported throughout this process.

    Hopefully, others who have had similar experiences will pop by with advice and insight. In the meantime, feel free to reach out to our team of nurses, they’re available Monday to Friday on 0808 800 4040.

    Sending you lots of positive thoughts while you wait, and I really hope the next steps become clearer for you soon.

    Best wishes,

    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Renata

    Thank you so much for the reply. I contacted the clinic and the secretary said she had been very busy and had a pile of letters and would type mine up that day.

    I received it yesterday at 8pm and it outlines the outcome of my assessment ie that I need a total duct excision and that “ I have listed you for the procedure and hopefully this will be carried out in the near future”.

    I will give them a follow up if I haven’t heard anything back in the next 2/3 weeks.

    I do worry about not having clearer guidelines or advice re waiting times given this is to rule out breast cancer/locate cause of discharge etc. I understand all departments are overwhelmed at the moment but my mind does run away with me so hope this is sooner rather than later.  

    Thanks again. 

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