Biopsy tomorroe

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I go in for my biopsy tomorrow and I feel like I’m going to crawl out of my skin. The only thing comprable is when I had a complete hysterectomy nearly 3 years ago, but I was actually more at ease with that procedure. It’s going to be a long night and an even longer week.

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  • TB90
    TB90 Member Posts: 992
    edited December 2019

    Amy, I am not certain what type of biopsy you are having, but I have to say, my ultrasound guided biopsy was almost painless. I had some bruising and minimal post procedural pain. I have had far more challenging dental apts. The emotional process is another thing though. I knew before leaving that there was something that would likely require a Mx. I think the radiologist said too much as the nurse looked horrified. But they were also suggesting DCIS which was reassuring. Waiting and worrying is so difficult. I so hope your procedure is simple. Sleep well as nothing too bad will happen tomorrow. You will do this.

  • Amy1970
    Amy1970 Member Posts: 11
    edited December 2019

    TB, stereotactic biopsy. And you're right, it's the emotional process that is what's difficult. It's not the biopsy, it's what it signifies and what happens after. My background is in hematology/oncology and hospice, so I have of course envisioned the worst possible scenario- worrying is a choice, and I am trying my damndest to occupy my mind...

    And how do I correct the header “Biopsy Tomorroe”- the misspelling is really chaffing me, lol

  • TB90
    TB90 Member Posts: 992
    edited December 2019

    Amy, I so get it. At my surgical info session when they stated not to get ahead of things, I stated out loud, “so it’s a bit premature to be planning my funeral”. Lots of laughter and then a serious discussion from all about how difficult it is not to go there. You cannot stop your thoughts. Let’s be honest. We can distract, think positively and pretend, but those dark thoughts creep in. It’s ok. But before you panic or get weak knees, we can counteract with rational arguments. And carry on. You just need to get through tomorrow. Do whatever helps. Take whoever may help. I needed to be alone so as not to have to take care of another (I am a social worker). You won’t know much more tomorrow, but you may get a sense. Especially you. You are not going to die tomorrow or any time soon. You are going to cope and return to your old self eventually. In the meantime, take care of your new vulnerable and scared self. She is temporary but needs extra tlc. Hugs and let us know how you are doing.

  • Amy1970
    Amy1970 Member Posts: 11
    edited December 2019

    And that’s precisely the reason I love social workers! Thank you for sharing your thoughts - after reading your words I think I might actually be able to rest. Having ones anxiety and fears validated provides tremendous relief. Thank you- I’ll let you know what happens!

  • dysonsphere
    dysonsphere Member Posts: 204
    edited December 2019

    I wish I had advice on not worrying. I've been a distracted, worried mess since I started this journey about a month ago. The only thing that helps me is that I focus on the fact I'm being treated and knowing is better than not. This way, whether we are being tested, waiting for results, or undergoing treatment, we are on working on not being sick. I hope all goes well.

  • thisiknow
    thisiknow Member Posts: 134
    edited December 2019

    All my biopsies were a breeze. Seriously. The only thing I wasn't prepared for that first time was the loud "snap" sound when they pulled the trigger. I think we all just laughed about it. At least they did. But as for pain, there just wasn't any. Good luck. And just think, after tomorrow you can tell others what it's like. :)


  • MinusTwo
    MinusTwo Member Posts: 16,634
    edited December 2019

    Amy - I think you have to send a PM to the Moderators to change a thread header. Probably under Member List or Search

    Good luck tomorrow.

  • AliceBastable
    AliceBastable Member Posts: 3,461
    edited December 2019

    My biopsy was mostly just interesting. There was a nurse in the room rubbing my lower legs and I wish I had told her to go away. It's like she wanted me to be an emotional mess, and I wanted to pay attention to what was happening. Luckily the radiologist explained every step of the procedure. Hubby and I went to a wild and crazy concert the next night. Doing fun things like that helps the time pass while you're waiting for results, and keeps your mind balanced.

  • Amy1970
    Amy1970 Member Posts: 11
    edited December 2019

    Biopsy completed- that table is so dang uncomfortable! The techs were excellent, however as they were showing me the scans after one pointed to two calcifications and said that’s normal, but then pointed to a much larger area and said “we never see areas like that!” She quickly changed the subject and I was ushered out the door. I didn’t even ask a follow up question because i was trying to process what she said.Not exactly reassuring...

  • TB90
    TB90 Member Posts: 992
    edited December 2019

    Amy, so glad it is over! If techs have never seen it, then perhaps it is simply very unusual. I am certain they have seen every variation of breast cancer. Very odd comment for them to share. They definitely need sensitivity training. Ugh. Just like mine stating I will require a Mx prior to an official dx. Lol. Now the waiting. Do whatever you need to do to get through this challenging time. Thanks for staying in touch.

  • Amy1970
    Amy1970 Member Posts: 11
    edited December 2019

    TB90,

    Luckily I have a desk job so I was cleared to work. I do much better if I don’t have idle time, lol! I’ll let you know what I find out- the navigator said I should have results Friday

  • MinusTwo
    MinusTwo Member Posts: 16,634
    edited December 2019

    Amy - I hope you do hear Friday. But don't be disappointed if you don't since this is a holiday week.

  • redhead403
    redhead403 Member Posts: 125
    edited December 2019

    Amy1970, I am a RN and to be honest had very little knowledge except when I recovered pts after breast surgery. I was overwhelmed, Stil am. Try not to worry too much, I know it is difficult. Good Luck and hoping for the best for you.

  • TB90
    TB90 Member Posts: 992
    edited January 2020

    Amy: Did you receive your results? I know you were hoping to receive them today. Been thinking of you.

  • Amy1970
    Amy1970 Member Posts: 11
    edited January 2020

    I did received the results- negative! It showed fibrous and cystic age related changes with microcalcifications. I posted the results in the Interpreting Your Report board, and I asked djmammo if I am greater risk due to these yearly increases in microcalifications. I am greatly relieved, and I have a lot of questions for my doctor.

    I am so very grateful to this group- it was a safe place to share my fears without worrying about burdening my family. Thank you all!!

  • Mareny109
    Mareny109 Member Posts: 34
    edited January 2020

    I'm glad to see you got a negative!!

  • KIDI919
    KIDI919 Member Posts: 425
    edited January 2020

    It is hard to share bad news with family. My onco just called me, I had a repeat CT of lungs (have a nodule located in right lung that my primary has been watching for a few years.) the other day and now he wants me to have a biopsy. And another MRI for a possible enlarged lymph node that was maybe missed during surgery. This after surgeon told me there was nothing. He(onco) was all upbeat today and when I saw him Friday. " This is nothing!" Well its something to me!! Sadly I will not share this "nothing" news with my husband. He has a type A personality (1st heart attack at 50) & has been completely stressed out lately by my problem, his 91 yr old mothers demands and work. I can't take propping him up right now. Thanks for listening.

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