New Diagnosis resulted in Second Opinion

“Research also shows that only 20% of people who seek medical attention every year get a second opinion.  If only one out of five people seek a second opinion, but almost one in three second opinions result in new diagnoses, the implications is obvious.  There are millions of patients who aren’t getting second opinions who clearly should --- and doing so would change the treatment course for large numbers of them.” ---You, the Smart Patient

Different Approaches, Same Diagnosis

For many conditions, there are several surgical approaches that may be appropriate. It is important for patients to learn about the different techniques possible to treat their condition. Some physicians may have not had the training or experience in new approaches to conditions and thus, may not offer this to patients. Conversely, you doctor may recommend an alternative treatment that he feels is better, yet other physician may feel a different approach is more appropriate. The more a patient learns about the condition and possible treatment options, the better he can make an educated decision on what the best possible treatment is for him. The physician will not have access to complete medical records or the benefit of an exam, so the goal of the consultation will be directed at helping patients better understand their condition and treatment options. This will result in a more informed discussion with their own treating physicians or a decision to seek out a formal second opinion with a physician who can review the records and perform an exam.

New Techniques

For the following conditions, new minimally invasive techniques exist, including use of lasers, laparoscopic (operating through small incisions the size of a dime), or robotic surgery.

• Prostate Cancer
  • Use of the Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Techniques
• Kidney Cancer
  • Use of laparoscopic surgery to remove the kidney for kidney cancer
  • Use of laparoscopic or open surgery to remove the kidney tumor and spare the remaining kidney.
• Colon Cancer
  • Laparoscopic vs. open Options for removal
• Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (Benign Enlarge of the Prostate (BPH))
  • Use of microwave energy to shrink the prostate
  • Use of Laser Energy (PVP: photo vaporization of the prostate)
  • Bipolar Transurethral Resection of the Prostate

 

[ Back to top ]

Site menu:

Home page | About - fees | Members | Services | Research | Contact | Top of page

Ask:

Are there any alternative forms of treatment available?

Facts:

Second opinions are your right as a patient.

Many patients are still uncomfortable asking their doctors about getting a second opinion.

 

Thank you for visiting, and please check back!