QuestionQUESTION: My wife, as of this year is a ten year survivor of BC. Dx at age 24 ILC T1b/N0/M0(no family history). Did the lump/rad and tamox for 5 yrs.
Been monitored since then. Had a mammogram Feb 2008 that show new calcifications (BIRAD 3), had an MRI a week later, came back clean (BIRAD 1), had a follow up mam June 2008, show same calcification, but a bit clearer, different radiologist ordered a stereo-tactic biopsy. Wen in for the procedure, the people pinpointed the faint location and after injecting my wife with a local for the pain, the spot could not be located. The tech said it happens sometimes and my wife and the tech stated that she did not move to disrupt the procedure. That breast center recommended us to go back to my wife's breast surgeon for a possible incisional biopsy? My question is how often does this happen? What other techniques can be used to retrieve a sample? An other help will be appreciated> We are very confused and scared...
ANSWER: With a stereotactical needle biopsy it is usually not difficult to get a sample since the mammograms done for the location of the lesion and with the skin markers are done before the needle is put in. But any procedure does have mishaps. A needle can also be put in using MRI or ultrasound guidance. And a surgical biopsy is also possible.
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QUESTION: Would it be worth going to a different facility to redo the stereotatic biospy? Or just letting my wife's surgeon decide? What would you reccomend, considering my wife's history?
ANSWER: I would INSIST on a biopsy! Which technique is used is less important but there is nothing wrong in trying another facility.
Good luck!
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QUESTION: I spoke to the radiologist today and she stated that she used a bit extra pain killer for the procedure, which cause them to loose the point.Would you say that was a "rookie" mistake and we should look to another facility for a repeat stereotactic biopsy?
AnswerYes probably! So try some other place! Good luck!
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