Upcoming mastectomy and COVID-19

rosecal954

I am scheduled to have a unilateral mastectomy on April 7 at a hospital where known COVID-19 patients are hospitalized. I have my pre-op appointments at the hospital next week at which time I will be most likely updated on the situation. I have not heard anything about re-scheduling or postponing my surgery. My recent diagnosis is a recurrence with high-grade DCIS. I previously had IDC back in 2013. So I'm a-little nervous about going into the hospital and I wonder if they will they allow my husband to stay with me. I don't know if post-poning the mastectomy at a later date is a good idea since the situation in the near future may not be any better. I imagine I will be informed by my doctor as how to proceed as my surgery date gets closer. Just wondering if anyone has has thoughts?

MinusTwo

From what I have read, most hospitals will NOT allow people to stay with patients. However, since you were diagnosed with DCIS and not invasive cancer, I'd contact your MO and ask it this is something that can be postponed. I agree, later dates will be MUCH later. I just cancelled all my doc appointment for April & May and scheduled for the first part of June. Maybe that's still optimistic, but I can always shift again.

Spookiesmom

Hospitals around here are canceling non emergency surgeries and electives. Cancer surgeries are happening. Call your surgeon.

bcincolorado

Our local news keeps us posted on status of our hospitals and the hospital websites all have current information. No one is allowed overnight stays though and visitation is extremely limited. People cannot even wait for someone in surgery in an area right now.

Moderators

Most cancer surgeries are happening. We are eager to hear from people what the treatment centers are suggesting, and how to arrange support post surgery. Hang in there We're here to help how we can!

Delarise

I saw my breast and plastic surgeon on Friday. I go to Albuquerque, NM for my appointments.They both told me that the surgery is considered an emergency since my cancer can start growing again as I have finished chemo. I'm terrified either way but I am still going ahead with the surgery. At this point it really doesn't feel like you have a good choice either way. Talk to the oncologist and your surgeon to see what they think is best for your case. Get all the facts and make an informed decision. I have been agonizing over this mastectomy anyway and this certainly hasn't helped! Also just take some time to really think about how you feel about each choice. Anyway, good luck to you!!