Tramogram....

Well, I had my tramogram done this morning at 8:15.  Of course, the tech can't SAY anything, but she did give me a thumbs up when she came back from having the radiologist look at them.

So, that's done for another year.  I'll probably get the official results from the gyn. in a week to 10 days.

The tech, who is trained in this procedure, asked me why exactly I'd need it if I'd had bi-lateral masts.  I explained to her about the 3-5% of natural breast tissue that gets left behind in all mastectomies because it's virtually impossible to remove all of the tissue against the chest wall. She seemed so surprised that anything at all gets left.  So here's a question.  If they train people to do this procedure why don't they give them a little info. about WHY it's necessary for those women who elect the mast/ tramflap option????  Curiouser and curiouser...

Anyway, I'm glad it's off my "to do" list.  L&H's, Luci

Hi Bev....somewhere on the U of M website for their cancer center, they talk about the Tramogram. I think they support it too, and poo poo on the docs that think it is a waste. Thank goodness we are an educated bunch!

Luci, glad you got the thumb's up, you deserve to have one less stressor!
L&H,
Lori

This is the first I have heard of a Tramogram.  What exactly is it?  After my appointments today, I WILL be having the mastectomy and reconstruction - Tramflap I am guessing.  Have to get the appointment set up with the PS whenever I can get in to see him.  Radiologist suggested I may want to have the "good' breast removed as well and two new boobs built alike.  Don't know if Blue Cross will agree however.  Will be waiting until after this grandbaby comes (in the nest couple of weeks) and before the next one comes in September to have this done.  Another thing my radiology onc said is that because of the way my skin reacted to radiation, it may take longer for the healing process when I have this procedure done also.  Oh Joy of Joy's.

Luci, if you or someone can give me a little more insite on the Tramogram, and what else to expect, I would be very grateful.  Thanks!

Love ya,

Kitty

 

Hi, Mia, yes, you're absolutely right. The problem is that very few radiologists have techs who have trained for it. It's really very simple. It's done on the mammogram machine but they use different plates and take 4 views (2 of each reconst'd breast).

The procedure came out of the U of Mich., but like all things new and innovative (I remember when sentinel node bx. was raising eyebrows among breast surgeons) it's taking some time to get radiologists on the bandwagon. There is still the prevailing theory that there's ONLY 3-5% of breast tissue remaining so the chances of a recurrence are slim. To which I say "Pooh!" What can a physician who sees a tramflap patient tell that patient if, heaven forbid, there is a recurrence??? Tramogram is a procedure that can actually find a recurrence in its very early stages. Who wouldn't want to have it done if can possibly prevent add'l physical pain and emotional torture??

I'll look for U of Mich. article and post the website. My gyn. in NY had never heard of it when I first brought him all of the info. I left it with him. A week later he called to tell me he'd actually gotten on the phone to the U of Mich and discussed the procedure with a physician there. 2 weeks later I was having my first Tramogram. Thanks heavens, there ARE some physicians who are open-minded and receptive to new info. brought to them by their patients. My dr. actually thanked me when I saw him again. He told me he has a number of Tramflap patients and he was now encouraging THEM to go for the procedure.

Oh, FYI, it's also covered by health insurance, so it's really a "win" for everyone involved. Hope this helps. Luci

I'd really be interested in reading the article too, especially now where I will be having the mastectomy and reconstruction done.

Thanks, Luci for all the info you provide.

Kitty

I just sent you an email, Luci.  Thanks!

Kitty

Hello All,

I have been having a tramogram for the past 3 years. Last year I went to a new place and the tech had never heard of it but didn't give me a hard time.  I had the info from Univ of Mich at home and faxed to her so she would know all the details. I think it makes sense to do it and was so glad when I found about it from someone on this board. It will be time for another one in a few months, time goes by so fast.  It is five years this month that I was dx, surgery was in June 2000. MK can you believe that?

Love,

Tru

Glad to see your post Tru. Five years has gone by quickly. We have lost many good friends and kept many more with us. It sounds like you are doing well. I am happy about that. Take care and stop by more often. Hugs MK