Forum Discussion

terrifiedme's avatar
terrifiedme
Member
2 years ago

DCIS question: Does a core needle biopsy break the duct and cause the cancer to spread?

Last Tuesday I was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) breast cancer in my left breast.

I have had two core needle biopsies on my left and right breast. I'm still waiting for the results from the biopsy on my right breast.

I have an appointment with the breast surgeon tomorrow (Monday).

I'm worried that the biopsies have damaged the duct wall and caused the cancer to spill out of the duct into the breast.

Does a core needle biopsy break the duct and cause the cancer to spread?

The radiologist who performed the second biopsy was very rough, and he inserted the needle at least six times into my breast (there are six holes/scars in my breast).

I live in Victoria and I'm a public patient. My local hospital is terrible and I don't feel supported by the breast surgeon. She is very unprofessional. I'm afraid that I don't have the same chance of survival as a private patient who can afford to see a breast surgeon of their choice.

I'm terrified that the cancer has spread because of the biopsies.

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  • alex76's avatar
    alex76
    Member
    2 years ago
    @terrifiedme I was worried about exact same thing. My breast care nurse explained that cancer doesn’t spread like that . Ask your doctor tomorrow and let us know 🤞
  • Afraser's avatar
    Afraser
    Member
    2 years ago
    Talk with your breast surgeon and if at all possible take someone with you. You need to make clear that you are unhappy with the procedures to date. Rough handling by people who should know better is distressing but may not mean you are at greater risk. Cancer cells can spread a number of ways, or not.

    If you are unhappy with your surgeon, talk to
    your GP about how to seek a second opinion. It’s important to your successful treatment that you have confidence in your medical team. Best wishes.