What happens after tumour board review?

A tumour board, also called a multidisciplinary team meeting, brings together specialists such as surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation specialists, radiologists and pathologists. They consider your scans, biopsy or pathology findings, medical history and treatment goals. The meeting produces a clinical recommendation; it is then discussed with you because the final plan should reflect your consent, practical needs and priorities.

The next step may be a consultation, another test, a treatment discussion or a referral. If surgery is recommended, the surgeon explains the procedure, expected recovery and alternatives before you decide.

Keep the follow-up appointment and bring a written list of medicines, allergies and questions. Ask which findings shaped the recommendation, whether the plan is time-sensitive, and who will coordinate your care. Request a copy or plain-language summary of the plan if that helps you remember it.

Before agreeing to treatment, check what preparation is needed, how decisions will be revisited if new information appears, and whom to contact between appointments. You can ask for a second opinion when you want another specialist’s view.

Contact your cancer team promptly if you develop new or rapidly worsening symptoms while waiting, such as severe pain, trouble breathing, confusion, heavy bleeding or inability to keep fluids down. Use emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, collapse or sudden weakness. These symptoms need assessment regardless of the tumour board recommendation.

What recommendation came from the meeting, and what choices do I have? Which test or appointment comes next? What is the purpose and timing of the proposed treatment? Who should I contact if my symptoms change?