Titanium marker clip from biopsy still remains after lumpectomy
I had a partial left breast mastectomy one month ago. Fortunately and blessed the cancer was removed and the margins were clean. However I learned last week during pre-radiation/post surgical mamography that the titanium marker clip from the stereotactic biopsy back in Aug is still present in the cavity where the cancer was removed. I am concerned that having radiation to that site w/the marker clip still inside could be risky to my health. I often experience an itchyness and occasional pain in my breast but contribute it to post surgical healing. Has anyone been in a similar situation? Should I insist on having it removed before radiation begins?
I have had severe pain since having a breast biopsy in which a titanium clip was inserted to mark the spot where y lump had been removed from. I have been suffering with severe pain ever since, and even had to be hospitalized because of the pain. I have been told by the doctor who ordered the procedure as well by many others that they have 'never" heard of the clips causing anyone problems. I have found countless stories though of women who are having similar experiences and are being told the same thing.
My procedure was supposed to cause little pain & some tendernous & I was told I would be back to my normal actvitites within 24 hours. It has been over a week, I am on bed-rest and am heavily medicated in order to deal with the pain & have been told that I must just be more "sensitive" than others. How can so many women experience the same problems, and yet the medical community just continues to dismiss the idea that the clips can be causing pain.
I have found through research that men have also had issue with clips that had been used after having a vasectomy, and in the particular case that I was reading the gentleman had it removed and then his pain went away.
Has anyone had their clip removed due to pain, or has anyone had a doctor who is willing to acknowledge that the body can reject the clip or be bothered by it?
Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!
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Hi - Statistically speaking, a very tiny percentage of women do experience some allergic reaction to titanium. This could come in the form of pain or itchiness. If you're stressed that you'll be in that very small group, you might ask to have the clip removed. But there's no evidence, at least that I've found, that radiation applied to titanium in your breast causes or exacerbates an allergic reaction. Since you seem nervous about it, though - I'd ask your surgeon about taking the clip out, OK? Good luck - PJH
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