My father is scheduled to undergo his biopsy next wednesday. Is this a painful procedure or will they sedate him?

Hi, DLG.

I was told the tumour in my left lung was inaccessible by other means, and that I had to have a CT guided needle biopsy. The first question I asked was about sedation!!

I wasn't happy to hear that the patient has to be aware and co-operate with the doctor when being positioned during the test, and that all I could have beforehand was a Diazepam pill. It's the very THOUGHT of what is involved that makes you uneasy, and that is only natural. I don't allow myself to dwell on things, so put the thought out of my mind until the due day.

The specialist and his team were reassuring, they made me comfortable and talked me through. The discomfort was minimal...a feeling of pressure when the needle is inserted. Having to stay absolutely still was my main focus, and I tried to imagine myself lying on the beach and sinking into warm sand.

That was my experience. The biopsy doesn't take long to complete. There was no soreness afterwards from where the needle was inserted, just a little bruise.

The next day I was told the sample taken was poor, that they'd only drawn necrotised tissue and would have to repeat the CT biopsy. I actually had no qualms about this...knowing there was no pain or distress for me to fear.
In the end, the pathologist managed to get enogh from the original sample to determine I had nsclc, so they didn't have to do it again.

I hope this is reassuring for you.
Both you and your father are in my prayers.

ellengrace.

DLG

To give you some idea of my level of bravery (!!!) I can tell you that my dentist can't do anything...and I mean anything....with me unless I am under full sedation!
That may put the biopsy experience into perspective !

Please don't worry unduly. Your Dad will be okay on Wednesday.

Thanks Ellengrace! That helps alot!

Hi, DLG.

I forgot to mention that a local anaesthetic is given.