FNA? was this the right procedure?

[tjcd]

Hello. My mother went for a routine mammogram 2 weeks ago and they told her to come back because her breasts are dense. So she went back, they repeated the mammogram, did an ultrasound and said there was a nodule so she needed to get an FNA (fine needle aspiration) of it. They also mentioned a clip and she said she felt several needles - i guess one to numb the area, one for the FNA and what could the other be? Is the clip placed with a needle? She said she felt scraping and the last needle was more bothersome. Also, do you think this was the correct way to go. Should she have gotten a second consult at this point? I was not able to go to the appointment and there is a language barrier with her so I"m trying to figure out what was done. I appreciate any help and thank you for your time.

[42many]

I asked for a copy of my radiology report and postoperative report. Things were explained in detail on both.I must admit, I needed to look up some of the terms used to better understand what had taken place. Hope all is well.

[tjcd]

Thank you. After her procedure I researched all about this and I thought it sounded like a core biopsy to me too, but her prescription was for an FNA and no one there seemed to explain anything at all to her. I guess we'll have to contact the dr. to see what was done and we're just praying everything is ok.

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear tjcd:  A fine needle biopsy (FNA) may be done when there is a lump that can be felt.  It does not require a mammogram.  From what you describe, it looks as thought your mother may have had a core biopsy.  This is done when there is an abnormality on mammogram or ultrasound that requires further evaluation.  The mammogram or ultrasound machine takes pictures, the breast is numbed, and a fairly large needle is introduced into the area of concern.  The images  document that the needle is in the right place.  A clip can be placed in the area using a needle-like device in case further investigation is needed in the future.  The clip will show up on x-ray and can be helpful for finding this location again in the future. This is a common way to do a biopsy when an abnormality appears on mammogram.