First dip on the roller coaster

Dale had a bronchoscopy at 7am this morning. The 30 minute procedure was uneventful and his recovery was over by 9am. After Dr. Adams performed this procedure, he met with Mother and I to discuss Dad's treatment.

Dr. Adams explained that although dad's lung function test taken yesterday was not perfect, it was sufficient to move forward on a lobectomy (removing the upper portion) of his left lung. He felt that after surgery, Dale's lung function would be sufficient for a normal lifestyle. When questioned about Dale's reliance on oxygen after the surgery, Dr. Adams felt that Dale would be on oxygen for some time and weaning himself off of it would be up to Dale. Dr. Adams has consulted with Dr. Pickett (Thorasic Surgeon) and they believe the resection of the tumor via lobectomy can remove all cancer from that lung.

Dr. Adams does not feel that the needle biopsy is necessary. He feels that the cancer is a non-small cell lung cancer that should be removed. He doesn't need an actual biopsy to make the recommendation for surgery. He also stated that he would have to cancel the biopsy scheduled already for tomorrow morning, since he hadn't taken dad off his Plavik (blood thinner). Dr. Adams "forgot" that dad was on Plaviks and no needle biopsy can be performed until Dale is off the Plaviks for 5 days.

Dr. Adams feels that surgery should be done quickly.

Without a biopsy, Dale can not be seen at MD Anderson for a second opinion.

Dale was an excellent patient and had all the nurses laughing! He is upright and reading the paper - with little to no after effects of the anesthesia. Dale's vitals were all great and his appetite is robust!

After a long conversation with my cousin Dr. Matt, he explains that sometimes getting a good needle biopsy is difficult. When unable to get a good biopsy, the option is to open up the chest for the biopsy. In light of this, most dr's opt to go ahead with the lobectomy and get the pathology after the surgery. Matt feels this is what Dr. Adams is doing. If a good biopsy is not attained, then there would be no choice but to have the surgery here and find out after the fact what it was. Matt hopes a good biopsy could be attained and then a trip to MD Anderson for treatment!

Dr. Henry (primary care) called and agrees with biopsy and surgery option. He knows Dr. Pickett and thinks he's a great surgeon.

I have contacted MD Anderson and started the process of getting Dale in for a second opinion.

I will be bringing Jackie and Dale to Marble Falls tomorrow for the long weekend. I hope to spend a fun weekend with family and get their input on the upcoming days and weeks of treatment!