Pain during Steriotatic Breast Biopsy

[booley]

I went for a steriotatic breast Biopsy this past week.  It was so painful I became hysterical.  I think this is the first time in my life that I true was hysterical. The test was not completed. (by the way the hospital could not give me an ice pack or tylenol for the pain...they just cleaned me up, calmed me down verbally and sent me home)  I felt like a hot arrow had been shot into my breast.  It is 6 days since the biopsy and I still hve a slight burning sensation and my shoulder and breast ach.  The Radiologist shot me twice with the numbing meds.  Did they do something wrong?  Is it possible I can't be numbed?  My Dr. wants me to try again or go for a needle biopsy where I would be cut open.  But, they will not knock me out.  After this experience I don't think I can be so awake during the proceedure.  Is there some other type of biopsy for microcalcifiations?

[sue-aloo]

A few years ago I had the needle biopsy (where I didn't have pain, just slight discomfort) but they didn't get enough tissue because my calicifications were so deep.  They then sent me for an excision(not sure if that is the right word), where they actually removed the area surgically.  I was put out with anesthesia and was still able to be sent home the same day.  I do not understand why you couldn't be "knocked out" for this next procedure. Also, I feel that the radiologist did not get the exact area to numb you.  I would definitely use a different surgeon/radiologist for the next procedure..also because of their careless attitude for your pain.  HOpe this helps!

[Desperatemother]

I work for a surgical oncologist and I have to order the stereocore biospy on a daily basis. I have had many patients tell me that it was very painful. You can have a surgeon "knock-you" out; however, to make sure the surgeon removes the right tissue area, a radiologist will have to insert a wire. In that, this part is easier than the stereo core bx, but you are still awake. If you get a really good radiologists then it should be just fine. Once the wire is placed you are taken to the OR; in which the surgeon can remove the entire area that is suspicious that was showing up on the mammogram. This is an outpatient surgery and you may have a little pain in that area about 1-2 days but nothing severe. Let me know if this helps, good luck to you.

[ceegee]

I had this procedure done and while it wasn't the most comfortable procedure it wasn't that painful.  I think you must have had someone not very experienced do yours.  I think the worst was the numbing shot but after that it was just a mild discomfort more pressure than anything, but certainly bearable.

I would suggest you try again, but with a different team doing it.

Good Luck to you.

[Bunny711]

I agree with the others, go to another radiologists, or I would opt for the excursional, I just had this for microcalc, and it was not bad at all, your sound horrible...........I would defintiely switch to a new team.