Lesson learned - go to an accredited center!

jomako

I had my consultation at Moffitt yesterday - what a difference! My prior consultation with a vascular surgeon did not go well. He wasn't receptive to answering my questions, only did 3-4 breast biopsies per month, expressed some concern over getting a sample since the calcifications were in such a small area, and had never heard of the subcategories of the BIRADs 4 classification.

My experience at Moffitt was very different. They classified the imaging that I had done locally that showed microcalcifications in my left breast as a BIRADs 4B. They also noted some asymmetry in the imaging done on my right breast, which they felt was a possible cyst, so did further mammography to make sure it was nothing to be concerned about. It was difficult for the technician to get the imaging because of the location of the area of concern. When she finally got it, she called me over to the monitors to show me what the area looked like on the screen. It turned out to be completely benign, but I am glad to have clear imaging of it in case it turns up on future mammograms.

I loved how open they were to sharing information and educating me as a patient! Everything was centered on the patients - someone was on hand to get you a cold water bottle if you felt thirsty or a warm blanket if you were chilled. The staff at Moffitt does everything they can to keep you comfortable and things running smoothly.

My biopsy is scheduled for Monday. While the procedure should be under an hour, the nurse and doctor warned me to be prepared to spend about 3 hours at the facility with all of the prep and recovery time. The doctor explained the procedure in detail and did not feel that getting the calcifications would present any particular challenge. They hope to have results for me by the end of the week, and I am to call next Monday if I haven't heard from them.

No more local mammograms for me, no matter how convenient it is to get it done on a Saturday. Knowing I am getting top-notch care and accurate information makes the drive to Moffitt well worth it to me. I am still anxious about the upcoming mammogram, but I now feel like I am in really good hands, which helps immensely!