The Association of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgeons
…dedicated to safe, state-of-the-art surgery and health life-styles for women of all ages
What Are Some Questions I Can Ask My
Doctor?
As you cope with cancer and cancer treatment, we encourage you to have honest, open discussions with your
doctor. Feel free to ask any question that's on your mind, no matter how small it might seem. Here are some
questions you might want to ask. Be sure to add your own questions as you think of them. Nurses, social workers,
and other members of the treatment team may also be able to answer many of your questions.
Would you please write down the exact type of cancer I have?
May I have a copy of my pathology report?
What is the chance that the cancer has spread beyond my prostate? If so, is it still curable?
What further tests do you recommend and why?
What is the clinical stage and Gleason score of my cancer? What do those mean in my case?
Do you recommend watchful waiting as an option for me?
Do you recommend a radical prostatectomy or radiation for me? Why or why not?
If you recommend a radical prostatectomy, will it be nerve sparing? Will it be lapararoscopic?
What other treatments might be appropriate for me? Why?
Among those treatments, what are the risks or side effects I should expect?
What are the chances that I will have problems with incontinence or impotence?
What are the chances that I will have other urinary or rectal problems?
What are the chances of the cancer coming back with the treatment you suggest?
What is my expected survival rate based on clinical stage, grade, and various treatment options?
Should I follow a special diet?