When last I reported on developements, on Jan. 30, it seemed something was in the works that would get me an evaluation sooner than later ( http://tinyurl.com/a4tka3f ).
Yesterday I got a packet in the mail, from MD Anderson that included a 9 page Patient History Database for me to fill out, a supplement to medical records they already have.
I contacted a new patient co-ordinator to learn more since the packet gave no indication when an appointment would be.
It seemed a notice about that had yet to arrive in the mail, or a phone call to me had yet to be made.
Anyway, I learned that I have an evaluation scheduled for the early morning of Feb. 28th. During the hour long visit I will be given an angiogram and an ultrasound to determine if I am a candidate for a radiation procedure called Brachytherapy, or if one of the other options given me for treatment would be more appropriate.
MD Anderson would be where I would get the "Brachy" done, other treatments apparently can be done at Ben Taub.
Internal radiation, or brachytherapy, involves radioactive material that is implanted in the body at the tumor site. Radiation implants are small tubes, seeds or capsules filled with different types of radioactive material and sealed.
Info on Anderson's website says that "over 50% of cancer patients will undergo radiation therapy; for some, it will be the only cancer treatment they need."
Mayo Clinic says that "brachytherapy may cause fewer side effects than does external beam radiation, and the overall treatment time is usually shorter with brachytherapy."
Mayo Clinic has a comprehensive discussion of the procedure, on its website, that goes on for several brief pages and is very informative.
I will have to call Ben Taub on Monday because I also have a follow-up appointment to my left eye surgery, at 230pm, and need to see if I have to re-schedule.
Stories referenced for this piece:
MD Anderson = http://tinyurl.com/6uc2faf
Mayo Clinic = http://tinyurl.com/agdgaj7
Healing purrs and we hopes they are able to determine the best treatment for you and get you treated ASAP.
Posted by: Fenris, Tuiren, Mister, Socks & Scylla | February 23, 2013 at 08:35 AM
Kiril, we sure hope your evaluation goes well, and that they can figure out the very best treatment for you. That Brachytherapy sounds like a good one. Paws and fingers crossed for you, friend!
Posted by: meowmeowmans | February 24, 2013 at 07:32 PM
We are purring and praying for GREAT results Daddy Kiril!!
Hugs from your TX furiends,
Posted by: Samantha, Clementine & Maverick | February 25, 2013 at 02:16 PM
I've not had a chance to catch up with you on your medical issues. I pray that all future surgeries and treatments go swimmingly. I am praying for you to have renewed health and success in everything you do. So glad you have the cats to keep you company.
Posted by: SocciWriter | February 25, 2013 at 07:36 PM
Thank you Sam, Clem, Mav, and Amanda!
Posted by: Kiril Kundurazieff | February 25, 2013 at 09:45 PM
Kiril, hope all goes well for your evaluation appt Thursday.
Posted by: jansfunnyfarm | February 26, 2013 at 02:10 PM
Thank you, Jan!
Posted by: Kiril Kundurazieff | February 26, 2013 at 02:24 PM