da Vinci robotic system and other new toys

I recently came across a good article that I would like to share with everyone. While it is not specifically about VHL, it makes some very good points that we need to take into consideration when we might be faced with more than one treatment option for a tumor.

It discusses the da Vinci robotic system which has been talked about on Team Inspire in our past discussions, mostly related to treating kidney tumors. It is surprising to learn that some hospitals have so few guidelines when it comes to the level of experience a physician must have to qualify to use some of the fantastic, high-tech equipment available today!

http://www.reuters.com/article/scienceNews/idUSTRE58G7AV20090918

The discoveries of, and improvements in, the types of therapy we have available today for treating the different kinds of tumors we can grow with VHL is amazing! VHL can often be managed with careful observation and appropriately timed intervention- not too soon and not too late. Some of these new therapies (like the robotic surgeries, laparoscopic surgeries, the different ablative techniques, etc.) may make this intervention much easier for us. BUT, not only does it have to be the right treatment at the right time for the particular tumor.....the doctor performing the procedure MUST be well trained in it and have VHL experience.

Be your own advocate. Ask questions. Get answers. I once saw a mother in a doctor’s waiting room grab a toy away from her little child while saying, “A new toy in the wrong hands can be a deadly weapon.” It seemed a bit dramatic to me, but in this case her fear was justifiable. After reading this article, I found myself thinking just that same thing.

Fran Mott
Michigan