How to Prepare for a Surgical Oncology Consultation
A few practical steps help make the consultation more useful and clarify the next clinical step.
Bring the key records
- pathology and immunohistochemistry reports; slides or blocks if available;
- hospital discharge summaries and previous operative reports;
- CT, MRI, PET-CT, ultrasound or X-ray reports and the original imaging where possible, preferably DICOM;
- information about previous systemic or radiation treatment;
- a current medication list, relevant conditions and allergies.
A short timeline
Write 5–7 lines covering when the problem was first noticed, when biopsy or surgery was done, when pathology was received, which tests and treatment have already occurred, and what concerns you now.
Questions to prepare
Write down a few key questions: Is the diagnosis confirmed? Is pathology review needed? What is the next step? Is surgery or multidisciplinary discussion needed?
You do not need to arrange every possible test yourself before the consultation. First identify which investigation is likely to change management.
Related resources
This information is educational and does not replace individual medical advice. The documents needed can differ by diagnosis and situation.
Consultation
Need an individual plan?
Prepare your documents and request a consultation.
Consultation information