Question about SAVI

bernall

Just left radiation oncologist office and very upset. Had lumpectomy for DCIS 2 weeks ago. Asked surgeon about SAVI and her only concern was if there would be enough room for the catheter. Radiation oncologist said that I am NOT a candidate for SAVI because I have breast implants. It felt very obvious that he was pushing the 6 week treatment plan from the beginning. Does anyone have any knowledge about SAVI and implants? Should I go for a second opinion or is his reasoning accurate. Appreciate any help.

Moderators

That is a good question. Regrettably, we don't have information up yet on our site regarding SAVI, but we did see this:

SAVIsisters

A second opinion always eases one's mind though.

DakotaGirl

Bernall, I have breast implants as well.  My surgeon implanted the SAVI on 1/8/15, and my oncologist removed it on 1/9/15.  

There just simply wasn't enough room in the tissue to safely receive the rad treatment.  The implant "pushed back" against the device too much, and it wouldn't stay straight, so the oncologist said the skin would receive too much rad and the opposite side of the tumor cavity wouldn't get enough.  I was so disappointed, because had to wait another month to start whole breast rads to give the incisions time to heal.

If I had to do it over, I wish I would not have attempted this.  The thought of being done in a weeks' time was so appealing, though!  Obviously I don't know your situation with amount of tissue, etc.