Topic: Lymph Node, Core Biopsy & Port Installation...

My procedures were done a little different.  I had two separate biopsies done one day, then sentenial node and lumpectomy done the next week, about three weeks later 27 tubes in my chest for radition then port installed a month later.  I found that lidocaine was my best friend during most of the procedures.  I felt no pain when it was used. You know it works when they can have you on a table over two hours putting 27 catheters through your chest and you feel no pain.

The only regret I had was the sentenial node procedure done the day of my lumpectomy.  The radiologist at the hospital said they did not provide lidocaine for numbing the tissue surrounding the nipple where they give the four radio isotope shots and that was hell.  I later read on this site that I could have asked my surgeon for a prescription for lidocaine cream to rub on my breast an hour before the procedure. If you have this procedure be sure and ask for the cream as I said quite a few curse words with the first shot while the radiologist said " don't worry if you scream " we know this hurts alot!  Hopefully your medical providers are nicer than mine.

UPDATE:

I had surgery on Thursday (core biopsy, sentinal lymph node and port placement).  Although I was a little sore on Friday, I was able to go to work on Saturday (I own a retail store) and church on Sunday.  I really thought I would be much more sore than I am.  Thankfully, I'm feeling pretty well.  I go for surgical follow-up today at 1:30.  I'm hoping that some results will be in but I'm not so hopeful that I'll be too disappointed if they aren't in yet.  I have my 2nd visit with the oncologist on Thursday.  My husband will be going with me to pick up my wig afterwards...what a weird direction our lives are taking!  My goal for this week is to get my chemo plan nailed down, now that my port is in and ready.