Our Summary

This research paper examines how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected patient referrals to cancer surgery specialists. The researchers compared referral data from a major academic hospital before and after the stay-at-home orders were implemented in California. They found a 21.6% decrease in patient visits during the pandemic. However, it was observed that patients with more serious diagnoses and vulnerable patients were still seen as needed. Interestingly, the time between a patient being referred and their first appointment (TRFA) decreased during the pandemic. The long-term effects of fewer clinic visits during the pandemic are still unknown, but the study suggests that the changes made during the pandemic that reduced referral times could be used to improve patient care and outcomes in the future.

FAQs

  1. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected patient referrals to cancer surgery specialists?
  2. What was the change in the time between patient referral and their first appointment during the pandemic?
  3. What could be the potential long-term effects of fewer clinic visits during the pandemic?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about oncologic surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the medical team, such as fasting before surgery, stopping certain medications, and avoiding smoking. It is also important to discuss any concerns or questions with the healthcare provider before the surgery to ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, following post-operative instructions for recovery and rehabilitation is crucial for a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for oncologic surgery are those with a confirmed or suspected cancer diagnosis that requires surgical intervention. This may include patients with solid tumors, such as breast, lung, colon, or prostate cancer, as well as patients with hematologic malignancies like leukemia or lymphoma.

In general, patients who are recommended for oncologic surgery are those who are deemed fit for surgery based on factors such as their overall health, the stage and location of their cancer, and their ability to tolerate the procedure and potential post-operative treatments. These patients may have already undergone diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies or biopsies, to confirm their cancer diagnosis and determine the extent of their disease.

In some cases, patients may also be recommended for surgery as part of a multidisciplinary treatment approach, where surgery is combined with other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy to achieve the best possible outcomes.

It is important for patients recommended for oncologic surgery to discuss their treatment options with their healthcare team, including surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists, to make informed decisions about their care. Additionally, patients may benefit from seeking a second opinion or consulting with a cancer center or hospital that specializes in their specific type of cancer to ensure they receive the most appropriate and effective treatment.

Timeline

Before oncologic surgery:

  1. Patient receives a cancer diagnosis from their primary care physician or oncologist.
  2. Patient undergoes various tests and imaging studies to determine the extent of the cancer and plan for surgery.
  3. Patient meets with a surgical oncologist to discuss treatment options and surgical procedure.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and preparations, such as blood work, imaging studies, and consultations with other specialists.
  5. Surgery is scheduled and the patient is instructed on pre-operative guidelines, such as fasting and medication management.

After oncologic surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to remove the cancerous tissue.
  2. Patient is closely monitored in the post-operative period for any complications and to manage pain.
  3. Patient begins the recovery process, which may include physical therapy, medications, and follow-up appointments with the surgical oncologist.
  4. Patient may undergo additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.
  5. Patient continues to have regular follow-up appointments with their surgical oncologist to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence or complications.
  6. Patient may be referred to other specialists for long-term follow-up care, such as a medical oncologist or radiation oncologist.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and benefits of the proposed oncologic surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of this type of surgery for my specific type of cancer?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after the surgery?
  4. Will I need any additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, after the surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options available besides surgery?
  6. How many surgeries of this type have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  7. What is the expected outcome in terms of prognosis and quality of life after the surgery?
  8. What are the potential complications or side effects of the surgery, and how will they be managed?
  9. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery, and what is the post-operative care plan?
  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take before or after the surgery to optimize my recovery and outcomes?

Reference

Authors: Sutjiadi B, McRae J, Silva T, Selleck M, Reeves M, Garberoglio C, Lum S. Journal: Am Surg. 2021 Dec;87(10):1656-1660. doi: 10.1177/00031348211051699. Epub 2021 Oct 23. PMID: 34693734