Vacuum assisted biopsy

Hi Harkness,

I have only been here a week and only diagnosed with dcis last week. However I have had two vacuum assisted biopsies. After both I did have extensive bruising plus swelling and tenderness (they went in twice each time). It’s so normal to obsess, I’m in the same boat as am awaiting my treatment plan. When you’re called back for your results, if the lump is still there and concerning you, ask them to have a look. It does no harm to be careful. 
Helen

Thank you mamah

i have an MRI on Wednesday so I’ll mention it then. It’s the waiting that’s the worst. 
Hazel 

Do they do the vacuum assisted biopsy instead of stereotactic biopsy?  
Barbara

Hello Harkness,  I know what you mean because I also was on the anxiety and obsession train when I was diagnosed.  So worried that I think my poor adrenal glands were worn out.  I tried to stop as I rationally knew it would not help but anxiety kept creeping back in.  Finally after a few months of this I started to feel a little less anxious.  As my surgeon said every woman has to work it out and then they come around.  It is a hard time but there is light for you.  Deep breathing is helpful and I like to exercise so that helped me too at least temporarily.  
Barbars

Hi hopeful

im sorry I’m new to this and I don’t really know what that is.  

Hi there, I don’t know if they are the same or different either.  I only know they called mine a stereotactic biopsy.  I lied face down on the table with breasts hanging diwn.  Then under mammography guidance they took the biopsy.  I remember hearing like a loud clicking sound when it was done.  There are so many tests out there.  Maybe someone with more technical knowledge will help us out.  
Barbara

hi hopeful

i can remember a loud clicking noise but I was lying on a bed kind of on my side with a nurse taking the biopsy and another nurse at my head talking to me. I also had a core needle biopsy previously in my call back and there was a clicking with that too. I was fine with that but not this time as I seem to have developed a lump. So rather anxious

hazel 

Hi Harkness and Hopeful Barb

Im not entirely sure but this is the info I found which may explain better than I can.

Stereotactic guidance is used in two biopsy procedures: Core needle (CN) uses a large hollow needle to remove one sample of breast tissue per insertion. Vacuum-assisted device (VAD) uses a vacuum-powered instrument to collect multiple tissue samples during one needle insertion.

I’m now 9 days post my second vacuum assisted biospy Harkness. I’m still fairly swollen and bruised and tender. Doesn’t help my 5 month old kicked me and I have a fresh bruise but hey she didn’t know! Only 3 days to go until you see someone. However, if you feel it is getting worse or can’t settle contact your Gp and get it examined. You just need to do what’s right for you.

Helen

Thanks so much Helen.  I had a stereotactic biopsy and was bruised from that but it was not too bad.  You have a lot in your plate for sure but with a 5 month old you don’t have too much time for yourself.  Congratulations on the new baby, they are so cute.  Wishing you the best in life.

Barbara

Thank you Barbara,

I sure do have a lot on but I wouldn’t have it any other way. A husband, a 5 year old, a 5 month old and two mini schnauzers to keep me fighting and happy! 
I wish you all the best