If you have recently come across the term soft tissue sarcoma because you or someone you know has been affected by it, then here is a comprehensive list of questions to ask the doctor or the medical team in charge about this type of rare but malignant cancer that forms in the soft tissues in the body. Find answers from multiple sources, discuss options and understand clearly what this condition is from the diagnosis and how it can be managed or treated. It is important to be armed with answers and acquire the wisdom to make the ideal choices.
- Does the diagnosis confirm cancer?
- Where is the growth found in the body? What type of soft tissue sarcoma is it?
- How much has cancer spread? What stage is it in?
- What is the current health condition? How will it affect other co-morbid health conditions?
- What are the suggested treatment options?
- Why are these medications, procedures or surgeries being proposed?
- How will treatment help? What will be the effect of the recommended treatments? What goal can they achieve?
- Are there any risks or side effects to expect in these treatments, both immediately and in the long term?
- How can side effects be prevented or managed?
- How will the treatment affect everyday activities, the established routines? And the overall life in general? What are the inconveniences that must be expected?
- What is the preparation required for the treatment to begin?
- Is there a possibility of recurrence of this cancer after the treatment is over?
- What are the symptoms to look out for in the case of a possible recurrence?
- Is this kind of soft tissue sarcoma common or rare?
- Is another appointment with a sarcoma specialist necessary? Are there any in the local area?
- Is there a specific health care team in charge? What are the roles and responsibilities of each one in the group?
- What is a clinical trial? What is the eligibility criteria to be part of one?
- What is chemotherapy? What is radiation therapy? How long does each of these treatments take?
- Is surgery absolutely necessary?
- What is the procedure for? How will the other organs in the body be affected because of the surgery?
- What is the duration of the operation?
- How long will the hospital stay extend after the operation?
- Who will perform the surgery? How much experience does this doctor have with regard to treating soft tissue sarcoma?
- What is the advice for recovery and rehabilitative care?
- What follow up tests are required? And when should these be arranged?
- How can the financial costs of treatment be managed? Is help provided in any form? Is insurance useful?
- What is the support service available for the patient, the caregiver, and their families?
- Is there any way that sarcoma can be prevented?
- Is there anyone, one point of contact, one particular person, to be acquainted with to clarify future queries and confusions?
- Are there any other areas of questions/doubts that need to be addressed regarding soft tissue sarcoma?
