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What should I ask my doctor?

It is important to talk to your treatment team about osteosarcoma and what to expect from your treatment. Depending on your age, you may want to have your parents involved. Don't be afraid or embarrassed to ask questions. This will help you become a part of your treatment team. It will help you know what to expect and keep you from worrying. Once you get some answers, you will be able to make better decisions about your care and take steps towards recovery. Consider asking some of the following questions. However, everyone is different in what they want to know. You and your parents should develop your own list and may want to add some of your own questions.

About the disease and diagnosis:

• What kind of osteosarcoma do I have?
• Where can I find books or pamphlets that can tell me more about my disease?
• Has the cancer spread beyond the bone it developed in?
• What is the stage of cancer that I have, and what does that mean?
• What did the imaging tests and biopsy show?
• Will any more tests be needed? What tests are needed? When and how often will they be given?
• Where can I get a second opinion?
• Should I see a cancer specialist?

About your treatment choices:

• What treatment choices are available?
• What is my chance for survival and rehabilitation after treatment?
• What risks or side effects are there to the treatments you suggest?
• Are there any body changes that I should expect with the treatments? Will I lose my hair?
• Will health insurance cover these treatments?
• Would you recommend that I participate in a clinical trial?

About the treatment:

• How will my treatments be given?
• How can I prepare for my treatments?
• How long will each treatment last?
• What side effects can I expect, both right away and later in life?
• Can the side effects be treated?
• How can I tell if my treatments are working?

About recovery and returning to work or school:

• How long will my recovery last?
• Does the hospital have a tutoring service?
• How soon can I go back to school or work?
• Is there information to give to my school or employer about any special needs I will have when I return?