Hiyer Rodin,
A tiny clip shows up on imaging - so its clear to the surgeon where the area was that was biopsied. I believe its about being able to easily find the exact spot that one sample was taken, so that if more samples are taken they can be done from different areas. I think. Also, if surgery is needed the clip can provide a marker for that. I didn't have a clip during biopsy, but I did have some added after surgery to show the location where the tumour had been (for future imaging comparisons). I'm not sure I know why some people have them during needle biopsies and some don't - and I'd be guessing somewhat - but I suspect it is to mark suspicious areas that are harder to find even using imaging techniques. It could be be that your 'area of suspicion' is more easily located than the other lady, due to its position or shape or type of area being tested. Maybe someone will put me right on that ?! Happy to be corrected.
It sure is a truly nerve-shattering wait, I recall mine oh so clearly and it was certainly 2 weeks to the results. You have the empathy of anyone who has been there before you, the psychological turmoil during these days of 'not knowing' are horrendous. I don't think its too dramatic to say that it feels like torture, and really puts your emotions through the wringer. Its hard to not let your mind go into some dark and frightening places, people can't sleep, some can't eat and lose weight and it consumes their thoughts - but we are all here and understand. Remember Rodin that after your consultant appointment life will go on irrespective, even if you need treatments :).
Regarding the telephone question - I wasn't offered the option of a call. I know many people aren't as lots of hospitals have a policy of only giving ALL results, no matter what they are, in a face to face meeting. That way, they can provide immediate support if the news means that treatment is needed for BC. I did ask at the time why they didn't just call people who had benign results to save the face to face, but the answer was that if you therefore spent 2 weeks waiting for a call and didn't get one - then you'd 'know' something was wrong. As painful as the wait is, it was deemed better to at least have a definite specific date for results. So, certainly my trust area, do a blanket face to face. I can't recall who posted below saying they had their results on a phone call - to be honest, that sounds awful. The Breast Cancer Nurse is often in the room ready to provide support if you have results that show BC - and they often talk to you after your meeting and give guidance on various things. I suspect you might have already been offered a telephone option, if one existed, and the fact that there is a date to return to the consultant probably means thats how they deliver all results.
Hang on in there Rodin ! You won't crumble to nothing, its just so darned hard dealing with the not knowing. I truly hope that your results come back as benign, but if they don't, then those skilled professionals, with their effective modern medicine will sort things out for you with a treatment plan. Feel free to post any of your thoughts and questions - we are happy to listen and share experiences. x
