“Saw a rectal surgeon Monday because of an anal fissure due to an episode of constipation. He examined me and said , “It’s probably a fissure but it could be cancer. Use this cream for three weeks and come back.” Now I have to live in fear for three weeks! My DRE a month ago showed no cancer, as did my PET scan. But now I have to live with this possibility – I don’t know how I will get through the next 3 weeks.”

The first response was:

“Your rectal surgeon sounds like a little shit to me. Sorry but who do these doctors think they are saying callous-fear-baiting-non-medical-bad-hair-day comments like that to cancer survivors? Anyway the miracle “potential” healing cure for a chronic anal fissure is c-0.3% nifedipine & 1.5% lidociane made into an ointment. It has to be specially made RX order. Don’t worry.”

Soon followed by

“I agree with the group that your doctor was very insensitive in the way he handled the whole fissure issue. I am one of the few people in the group who decided to keep the temporary colostomy I got to get me thru treatment. At that time I just wanted peace of mind so after treatment I decided to get an ap resection. I have never once looked back at my decision. I knew I made the right choice for me. I live a wonderful, full active life. Most people that know me do not know about the colostomy. I never had a C tatooed on my forehead. Also even if you did have any residual disease you can always have the radioctive seeds implanted in that area. Usually the radiologist leaves enough rads for that procedure. I do know a lot of people have had fissures after treatment so that is probably what you are dealing with.”

If you had a choice are you sure you would see this doctor? Emancipated patients know when it is time to change doctors! Doctors who do not understand their responsibilities in obtaining an appropriate diagnosis in a timely manner should be sanctioned by their patients. Switching physicians is one way to achieve that.