Hello Makkie,

The other thing that happened when I first sought treatment at another institution once I received my cancer diagnosis was a review of my biopsy slides by the Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCC) pathologists.

I wasn't seeking a second opinion per se, as my Oral Surgeon had already recommended that I be scheduled for a larger resection by their in house ENT cancer surgeon.

So the oral surgeon who did the biopsy and called me to tell me that the results were cancer, also told me that I should get a larger section removed to ensure all cancer was removed with sufficient margins, as my diagnostic biopsy edges were a little too close to meet the standard of care for resection of actual oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Once I requested another institution do the surgery, that was kind of like seeking a second opinion, well at least that triggered them reviewing my biopsy slides.

That was not to just to ensure accurate diagnosis, but also for surgery planning purposes, how much, and in which direction etc...

This other CCC pathologists confirmed the other CCC pathologists diagnosis.

This new CCC ended up being a closer drive for me, has a stronger oral cancer program, and is in a major New England city, with lots of advanced research, surgery, chemo and radiation abilities should I ever need those.

R/
CQ