Stereotactic Biopsy for Breast Calcifications

I just turned 40 & my mammogram shows 3 clusters of calcifications in 1 breast, and 1 cluster in the other.  (I had a mammo at 36 & none showed.)  I am scheduled for a stereotatic biopsy but am questioning the necessity.  I am told 80% of the time these are nothing to worry about.  So, wouldn't it be feasible to watch for changes in future mammograms instead of going straight for the biopsy?  Because I'm having 4 biopsies done, they are telling me I will be on the table for probably 3 hours & that it is not comfortable.  (I also just had a colonoscopy & that experience was wonderful-the medication they use make it a totally pleasant experience.)  Ok, I've had a 9# baby with no meds, so it is not that I can't deal with pain.  However, when this is being done at a hospital & we have meds available for this (like what they use during colonoscopy), why are these meds not utilized?  I am very upset about this because I feel they don't use them because MEN don't have to get this done.  Can a dr./nurse explain to me why these meds are not used?  I am seriously considering cancelling my appt. for the biopsies.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Just Turned 40: Microcalcifications are small calcium deposits found within the breast tissue. There are different types of microcalcifications, and based on their pattern on the mammogram it gives the radiologist clues as to their cause. For instance microcalcifications that are more scattered are probably due to a benign (non-cancerous) cause, a

[audieh]

Your post sounds just like me!  I just turned 40 and had 4 areas of calcifications found too.  I had a stereotactic bx done Wednesday and it was as pain free as anything could be.  I had an iv with pain meds and something to "take the edge off" it only took about 45 minutes to do all four places.  Today I have a little more swelling but a little ice pack in the bra does wonders.  Don't be afraid, it will be okay.

[Just Turned 40]

They gave you an IV with pain meds?  I'm being told they "don't" do that.  Do you know what they gave you?

[suzi-q]

I had one done 4 years ago when I was 36.  The time varies depending on the location.  Mine was way deep inside so it took over an hour to get enough tissue from the exact location. (It was also very small).  I remember being a little uncomfortable, but no pain per se.  It was a little pressure that I felt because they had to go in so deep.  I also remember being alert.  did your doctor tell you the BIRAD?  I know that when it is a BIRAD of 4, it means it is suspicious and it is up to you and the doctor if it should be biopsied or take a wait and see approach.  Because yours was not present 4 years ago, that may raise a suspicion as to why they are forming.  Get it done to be on the safe side.  Most likely it is nothing, however if it is, it is so small that it could be treated very effectively.

[Just Turned 40]

Can you explain what BIRAD means?  I have not heard that term from my dr.  Did they give you an IV with pain meds during the biopsy procedure?

[DonnaRee]

I too have been where you are. They typically do not offer any type of sedation, just a local numbing medication like Lydocaine. My advise would be to ask for plenty of it and to take something for the anxiety ahead of time. If you can and want to, I would suggest taking your magnification films to a breat cancer center who specializes in breast imaging. Sometimes, as in my case, getting a second opinion from a specialist is worth it. Mine (one tiny area of calcs) were originally a BIRAD 4 (suspicious) and when I went to the BCC, they decided to watch them instead of biopsy. The key here is doing what makes YOU the most comfortable.

[suzi-q]

I copied this from another site for you.  


Category 1 Negative
Category 2 Benign Finding
Category 3 Probably Benign Finding

[suzi-q]

BIRADS:  Acronym for Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System.

[suzi-q]

Also, I did NOT get an IV during my Biopsy.  However, they didn't get enough tissue so I ended up having to have the calcifaction excised surgically.  It was in and out in one day.

Thank God it was benign.

Please let me know if I can be of anymore help.

[Just Turned 40]

Thank you all so much for your info.  It has been a tremendous help.  If you have anything to add, please keep posting!

[suzi-q]

I will!  Also, please keep me posted on you, too!  I will be thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers.

[Montana girl 06]

Three hours on the table does sound like a looooong time. Is it possible that you'll be there 3 hours but time on the table is actually less? My stereotactic lasted about 2 hours, but I was only on the table about 45 min. I highly recommend getting a second opinion if you're not comfortable with what they're telling you. A breast specialist (or second opinion) might have a different opinion. I hope all turns out well.

[vermontgirlII]

Hi,  I had two stereotactic Mammotone type (vacuum assisted) biopsies on microcalcs., and the entire process took 3 1/2 hours of which I was on the hard table for at least 2 1/2 hrs.  Yes, it is uncomfortable to have your neck at a right angle for that long, but it is over before you know it really.  I think you could ask for something to relax you before the procedure, just make sure that you sign any consent forms before hand, because you have to be of "sound mind" when you sign.  And make sure they give you plenty of lidocaine, and ask for more if you feel anything uncomfortable.  The biopsy core needle on the machine for mine had a tip that dispensed more lidocaine every couple seconds, but the nurse could put more in on command.

[viddie]

Hi,
I had a Stereotactic Biopsy a few years ago, and I was not in any pain because they do numb it, but perhaps you could ask for a script for ativan or something to relax you so you can take it by yourself right before the procedure. I wish I had thought of that. My nurse was very nice- she held my hand and gave me several massages while I was lying on my stomach to relax me- and it worked. Please do not cancel- it is always better to be on the safe side.

[sunshineca]

I had a stereotactic biopsy done because of breast calcifications on Dec. 27.  Yes, 80% of them turn out to be benign, but not mine.  I was just diagnosed with Stage I invasive ductal carcinoma.  I say better safe than sorry - have the biopsy done!  Unfortunately I was also one of the few people who had a terrible experience with the biopsy.  They hit a blood vessel and couldn't stop the bleeding right away.  Now over 2 weeks later my breast is still very bruised and sore.  Maybe if this complication hadn't occurred, it wouldn't have been so painful, but in my situation I definitely would have appreciated more pain management!  I also just had knee surgery a week earlier, so laying on my stomach for an hour was extremely uncomfortable.  Your situation should be simpler, but I would still ask for whatever pain meds they will give you!

[vermontgirlII]

Please go ahead and have the biopsy.  It really is nothing in the whole scope of things, and then you can know what - if anything - you have to deal with.

[Under Forty Pam]

Hi Just turned forty, from Under Forty Pam.  Well I am 39 to be exact but hey, it is still under forty for a little longer.  DO NOT PUT OFF the biopsy.  I got BC at 39 with no family history and all they saw was calcifications too.  They only numbed the breast, no other pains med were given.  I'd be lying if I said it didn't hurt and I have a high threshhold for pain too.  I think the lumpectomy hurt less than the biopsy but I also changed doctors.  I think the skill of the surgeon counts a lot in this case.  Get someone experienced!!!!

[Just Turned 40]

Thank you, & everyone else here, who has posted messages to my questions.  I am so sorry to hear of your diagnosis.  After the lumpectomy do you have to have chemo & radiation, too?  I am going ahead with my biopsies on 1/22.  My surgeon did prescribe Zantac or something for me to take before hand.  I find it very interesting that she can tell me it isn't any worse than going to the dentist, yet when I asked her why the table couldn't at least have a hole cut out for your face (like a massage table) so it isn't so painful on your neck, she said she never thought of that & doesn't really know because she's never done the proceudre or even knows how the table is really set up.  I realize everyone's experience is going to be different.  It just seems like they could do more to make everyone's experience more pleasant.

[laure113]

I had 2 clusters of calcifications in one breast and had stereotactic biopsies on both. I did take Xanax prior to the procedure to relax me. I can't say it was a great experience, due to the nature of it, but I have had worse experiences in a dentist's chair. Way worse! The nurses were very kind. One rubbed my back and stayed beside me the entire time. I was very lucky. They were benign. Hang in there.

[suzi-q]

Just thinking about you today.  Hope you are doing well.  Hang in there and I pray for your peace of mind and good outcomes.

[Just Turned 40]

Thank you for your kind words.  I have finally "wrapped my head around" that I'm going through this & accepting it.  I think because it doesn't feel like anything is wrong with me that I am angry that I have to do this.  But, as people have posted here, there still can be something wrong.  I'll let you know what happens next week.

[ShareBare]

Just a question.  I'm scheduled for a stereotactic biopsy on Friday and am wondering if they will likely let my husband in during the procedure?  I'm not really clear on how sterile the environment is or if its really on operating room...but then he was allowed in to deliver our kids? Does anyone know the answer to this question or have any related experience with having a support person present?

[vermontgirlII]

I can just tell you my experience.. my fiancee was allowed in the procedure room while the radiologist explained what they were going to do, then he had to leave.  I guess it would have been nice to have him there, but on the other hand, I would have probably worried about his reaction instead allowing myself to just be 'the patient'.  Anyhow, I don't think it's up to us.

[scaredkathy]

I had the stereotatic biospy 2 weeks ago.  All clear but I am still in a great deal of pain.  I wanted to post a question but it looks like the quota for questions is full for the day so I am asking it here...  Is this normal?  I feel a lump to the left of my nipple around my incision area.  I don't know if it is scar tissue, a blood pocket or maybe it's infected.  I have to call the surgeon's office & schedule an appt but has anyone had complications like this?

[laure113]

I also had a lump where the incision was. I was told it was scar tissue. I did have it checked out to be on the safe side. I felt occasional pain, as well. 2 months later and I can still feel it a tiny bit. Did you call for your follow up appointment?

[36 and scared]

Does anybody think the longer it takes to hear back, that it must be bad news?  I have not heard a thing and its late Thursday afternoon?  Should I call them?

[laure113]

How long has it been? It can't hurt to call, if you haven't already. I had mine done on a Wednesday and I had my results the following Monday. I called. I was scared, too. I have heard of women waiting longer than me. I don't think it's necessarily bad that you haven't heard back. When I had my mammogram, they called me the next day. That wasn't good news. I hope you let us know what the results were. Hang in there.

[scaredkathy]

I have an appt next week so we shall see if it is hematoma (I think that's what they call a blood pocket) or scar tissue. Just don't want it to be an infection.  Thanks for the input.

As far as how long it takes for your resutls.  I had my biopsy on Tues the 2nd and didn't hear until Fri the 5th and it was good news.  It was a long wait but the surgeon had a death in the family.

[vermontgirlII]

Hi,

ScaredKathy, I had a small hematoma at the incision site of my stereo. bx.  I was told it is  nothing to worry about, and a warm compress will help dissolve it.  Infection will be painful, hot, red, so if you  have any of those symptoms, you should call your surgeon's office right away.

I had my exc. biopsies yesterday, and there were no complications.  The wire location was relatively painless, compared to the stereo biopsies, so that was a relief, because I was so nervous.  The surgeon was able to get both areas from one incision, so that was also good news.  I am pretty sore, esp. under my arm, which is not near the incision site, but who knows...  Going back to bed, I should hear from the biopsy path report somewhere from Tues to Friday.

[ShareBare]

Hello to evrybody.  I had my Sterotactic Biopsy today and was relieved that it was not too painful and that I was allowed to have my husband present except for when they took the xray. I was on the table for about an hour and other than the first two shots with the gun, the others were painless because the doctor added numbing when I told him I felt pain. I was told the preliminary results showed no sign of A-typical (cells?) and that I should come again on the 31st to discuss the final report.  Has anyone had this experience or can anyone explain A-typical cells and the need to return for a final report?

[Teenasue]

Hi everyone. I had my Stereotactic core biopsy done just yesterday for suspicious calcifications found on my yearly mammograms. I went in thinking that that the procedure would be a breeze. I have a high pain tolerance and have been told by many people that this procedure is relatively painless.
Well to begin with, the nurse had me lay down on my stomach and put my breast through the hole. She had me position myself and then had me hold still for a long time. She then proceeded with the numbing shot which I felt and did feel like a bee sting. No big deal really. They made an incision on my right side of my right breast. I didn't feel it at all. But when they put the needle in and started taking out tissue samples I felt everything. The first bout was 7 samples. Then they did 8 more. And the again they took 5 more. Mind you I felt every single piece of tissue ripping out of my breast. I told them right off that I felt it and I was feeling like I was about to pass out.
The did not stop. They came over and told me not to  move or we would have to start all over again. I have never felt so much pain. And I have had 3 children and a kidney stone. So I know pain. My body was shaking and I broke out in a full sweat. The paper my head was on was completely wet. The nurse did bring me a wet paper towel for my head and said hang in there. They took my pulse and said it was very low. Around 30 beats. I could not believe I had to feel 20 of them. That hour felt like 5 hours to me. I could not even sit up for a long time and had trouble standing for even longer. I really felt like I had been tortured and no one cared. I can tell you all, I will not have that done again. If I have to have anything like that done again I will be knocked out completely.

[kkish]

Hello,  I just read what Teenasue went thru with her stereotactic biopsy.  I have my done on 2/2.  I'm hoping my goes a little better.  The doctor said if all goes well I should be done in a half hour if I don't move.  My husband is going in with me for support.  With him in the room I'm hoping for the time to go fast.  Listening to everyone else I'm going to ask for enough pain meds.  They gave me Ativan to take the night before and the morning of.  I'm also going to take a couple of oxycodones before I go.  I take them for a back injury.  They said it would be ok.  Will let you know how I make out as far as pain goes.  They told me I will be very black and blue after the biopsy and swollen.  They said to use a frozen bag of corn to help with pain and swelling after the biopsy.  Has any one else done this and does it work?  I will say a pray for all.  Any comments welcome.  Karen

[boninclyde]

My biopsy was just like teenasue. They said they could not give me much pain meds because of my heart but the more I read I just don't believe that. They do surgeries all the time on people with heart issues. I will never have it done again either. It was the worst pain I have ever felt. It was like cutting off my breast with no pain meds. The meds are very important.

[Teenasue]

Thanks for all your comments. I thought maybe I was a freak or something after reading and hearing all others posts with every one saying how theirs went so well. I really think that the Dr. and nurses at my clinic were not either qualified or had not done very many of these procedures. I am still having issues yesterday and today. I called my regular M.D. and they told me I should write to the clinic and tell them that I am having anxiety from this. I have been having nightmares and headaches and dizzy spells with a racing heart ever since the incident.
My Dr. said it like Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. I honestly have not been able to get it out of my mind. When they first heard me say "That is painful" they should have stopped and rescheduled some other way of doing my biopsy. This doesn't mean that all clinics are like this , as a matter of fact I think most of them would have and should have stopped. But LUCKY me I had the bad one.
I am still grateful to have had it done because I need to know if it is cancer. But what a way to find out.

[blondieny]

Oh my gosh these stories are unblievable,I had small area of cluster, had to have a biopsies, unreal ive told the story a couple of times and have to laugh. I left work at 1000 had to be there by 1030, I get there a little anxious , i get on this table with a hole in the middle. I dont know about you guys but my breast are about 1/4 way down on my body, i  had clogs on so i had to keep my toes sqinched to keep them on, i asked the md is this compression going to be on the whole time, oh yes, im laying there my toes cramping, my neck cramping and thinking who the hell would have but the whole in the middle of the table, yeah it was uncomfortable and i almost talked myself out of getting it done, but very glad i didnt wait the results were positive igo in for my lumpectomy this coming friday, it was caught very early the cancer is just in the duct, after i heal then i will have to get 6wks of radiation, Good luck to all

[Teenasue]

Blondieny,
Good luck on your Lumpectomy and radiation. My thoughts are with you. I won't know anything until Tuesday at the earliest. But hoping it's benign.My prayers go out to all of you in the waiting.
Teenasue

[blondieny]

I also waited two months to decide on lumpectomy after seeing oncologist and plastic surgeon and  going to afew breast cancer support groups to actually talk to women and what decisions they made re: lumpectomy or masectomy, also i found out 11/30 my sons birthday so i postponed surgery until after the holidays, now i have to go through a similar procedure as the biopsies  before surgery becouse while they were doing the biopsies they put in dissolvable markers, well now they have dissolved and have to be replaced, the surgeon told me i will be under compression and awake and this is painful. Oh my gosh, but like all of us here we do what we have to.  And once again i want to say to everyone ask lots of questions, be informed, i am a nurse and it amazes me that patients dont ask questions. ASK< BE INFORMED

[Teenasue]

Yes I did ask questions but I was told that the procedure was nothing really. So I went in with no regard to the pain issue.
But next time, if there is a next time, I will be sure and tell them about how it went for me before. Hopefully they can do some other form of biopsy for me.
I hope your procedure goes well and that it is relatively pain free.

[Montana girl 06]

It might be worth checking out the facility where you're having your stereotactic. When I had mine they told me to wear comfortable pants (sweatpants) and socks (no shoes on the table.) I had a nurse rubbing my shoulder most of the time and they often asked how I was doing. Afterwards, they sat me in a recliner with a heated blanket and gave me juice. I was sore from laying in one position so long but that was the only discomfort. I had to ice mine for 24 hours. I think I took a couple of Tylenol, but that's all. I feel bad for those of you that had such horrific proceedures.

blondieny - I hope your lumpectomy goes well. I'll keep you in my prayers.

[Just Turned 40]

I had my stereotactic biopsy done yesterday.  They decided to only biopsy 3 out of the 4 calcifications.  I was there for 4 hours, with 3 of them being on the table.  It was very uncomfortable.  My breasts are also very dense--the needle bent when they were trying to numb me.  The numbing worked fine for the initial cut, but when they went in for the samples I could feel what felt like a bunch of little needles.  Of course I was facing the wall & trying to tell them I feel pain, but they had a hard time hearing over the noise of the machine.  They had to stop during each sampling to give me more pain meds.  When it was all done they asked what the pain was on a scale of 1 to 10.  I'm thinking, compared to what?!?  No, it wasn't a 10, but it was very uncomfortable!  I still believe this procedure should be done with sedation.  When the clinic called today to see how I was doing, I started to tell her that, & she couldn't get off the phone fast enough.

Sharebare:  atypical cells are precancerous.  They told me if they find them, they have to go in & biopsy more to make sure they get them all.

Blondieny:  the reason the hole is in the center of the table is because this table is designed to do prostate biopsies.  (Is this a man's world, or what?!)

Women--what can we do to get them to listen to us?

[blondieny]

Im glad you got the biopsies done, Iwas nervous getting them done and then i was nervous about getting the results, now im nervous about the lumpectomy, but because we are women and mothers we will do what it takes.  You sound like a very strong woman,  i read somewhere that every experience we go through is a life lesson and would should learn that life lesson,I turned 39 when i felt the lump which turned out to be a fibroadenoma but thank goodness for that lump other wise i wouldnt have gotten that mammo, i wouldnt have detected the duct cancer at such an early stage. this website has been awesome to share experiences with such strong women!!!!!!

[brada]

A related discussion, stereotactic biopsy was started.

[frustratedrg]

A related discussion, heat or ice for stereotactic biopsy was started.