Stents and stopping Plavix for procedure

[Suzie2127]

I am a 76-year-old female with AFib for the past three years.  The last of Jan. I was hospitalized for AFib with a high heart rate that wouldn't stabilize. Feb. 13th I had a major heart attack and SCD. Was sent to the heart hospital where two stents, one bare metal and one drug eluding, were implanted in the LAD. Five days later a pacemaker/defibrillator was implanted. The next week I was hospitalized for a blood clot near the area of the implant, then back into hospital for AFib, after which I had an infected right arm from the IV. Three months ago I had a very infected left breast, also many cysts-- which is not unusual for me. One small one has debris, and a needle biopsy was recommended. The problem is the radiologist wants me to go off Plavix and aspirin to do this. I am confused because the surgeon who saw me for the breast infection said he could aspirate the large, infected cyst in his office that day even though, at that time, I was on both Coumadin and Plavix. The cardiologist said I shouldn't have the biopsy until the middle of August. Several weeks ago, the cardiologist took me off of Coumadin and added two 81-mg, aspirin and recommended that I stay on the Plavix for the biopsy. The radiologist's office contacted the cardiologist and they agreed I could go off Plavix for seven days prior to the biopsy. At this point, I am more concerned about a blood clot in my stents than breast cancer. Is it safe for me to discontinue Plavix? Which is the greater risk, bleeding from a needle biopsy or a possible blood clot as a result of stopping the Plavix? Thank you for any advice you can give me.

[Suzie2127]

Thanks for your interest. Have contacted an EP.

[beema36]

I don't really have an answer but can u understand your concern. Could u call and visit with your cardiologist about your concerns? Also maybe your pharmacist could give u their opinion on risks etc. Not much help but a couple ideas.