Vacuum assisted excision - any advice on what to expect?!

Hi everyone,

I'm going in to the hospital later this week to have an ultrasound guided vacuum-assisted excision of a lump / papilloma in my breast. 

The other option was surgery, but they said it was probably just small enough to be removed via excision / biopsy instead.

Previous sets of biopsies I've had done have all been the 'staple gun' type and it sounds like this is different - does anyone have any experience of it? To be honest I found the ones before pretty grim, and I'm quite bad with needles, so the idea of doing a longer version makes me really anxious and I'm trying to figure out what I should expect to happen.

Thanks,

Amy x

 

 

 

  • Hello Amy

    I'm sorry to hear that you need to go into hospital later this week for a further biopsy. It's understandable that you're feeling anxious about things. 

    We do have some information on our website about vacuum-assisted biopsies which may give you some reassurance but I'd encourage you to also give our nurses a call to talk things through with them. I'm sure they will be happy to try and answer any questions you have and offer some advice and support ahead of the appointment. If you'd like to chat with them they're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Good luck with your appointment Amy. Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator