I work in a concierge medical practice and one of our patients had a core guided breast biopsy.  she is having a lot of pain and discomfort.  I have been trying to do research in re: to this clip which is a standard INRAD clip it is made of titanium and PVC.  PVC is polyvinyl acetate. it is used in chewing gum, glues etc.  the allergy could be from the PVC not the titanium. However, the reaction could also be from the foreign body itself.  sometimes your body doesn't like things that shouldn't be there and it wants it OUT NOW! unfortunately, the only way to get rid of these symptoms is to surgically have the marker removed.  Thought I would pass this information along!  hope it helps

Hello,

I had a core breast biopsy in which a titanium clip was inserted. I have been in excruciating pain ever since, to the point that I had to be hospitalized. I have been told over and over that it is not possiblt that the clip is bothering me, however I feel very strongly that it is. I wasn't in any pain prior to the procedure and the doctors  can noot find the reason for my pain, yet they continue to dismiss the possibility of a reaction to the titanium clip.

Do you know anyone who had the clip removed and whose symptoms/pain went away? Any information or advice that you have would be helpful. I am tryingto locate any information that I can provide to my doctor to show that there are indeed others suffering from the clips.

Thank you!

I posted a long reply that would answer some of your questions here:

http://www.healthcentral.com/breast-cancer/c/question/95513/33479

If the URL doesn't come through, change the numbers at the end of this page to 95513 [slash] 33479

Hello,   I also had a breast biopsy on Jan 25 2010 and ever since breast infection and symptoms exploded... was put on anitbiotic for 3 weeks but still had terrible breast pain and swollen lymph nodes... they even did a sentinal lymph node biopsy at same time as lumpectomy last Wed. as it was showing possible metatasis... final path report showed no cancer in lymph node but the site where the clip was showed fat necrosis with central hemorrhage and centrally with the area of the necrosis is the metal clip.   I had the clip out the at the lumpectomy time and my healing has been very fast.. it will be a week tomorrow and I feel so much better.  I also asked if I could have been having a reaction to the clip and was pooh poohed.... keep pressing as now I know it caused me excruciating pain for the month it was in me...I was so sick and I think everyone thought I was crazy.

T

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I am glad to hear that you are feeling better. I did have the clip removed and the pain went away immediately. I don't understand how so many in the medical profession can continue to act like this is in women's heads. From the stories that I alone have read makes me believe that women should be notified prior to their procedure that there is a posibilty that they could have a bad reaction to the clip.

Stay well!

Hi, I am so grateful to be able to find people who can relate.  I too had a clip inserted in Dec and am feeling worse and worse.  I am now trembling in my lower extremeties and hands almost constantly.  I believe it is related and the dr told me that it is impossible for it to have any neg effect since it is so small.  Ha!  I would like them to have it placed in their breast and then give me an intelligent answer.  I too feel like the medical profession is ignoring any claims of adverse reactions.  She said in her 20 years that no one has ever had a problem.  Hard to believe.  Can you tell me how you did with the surgery when it was removed?  I am looking for a surgeon to remove mine and would love to know if you are close to my location.  I am in Georgia but would go anywhere to have it removed.  Thanks so much!

Hi,

I am sorry to her of your pain. I am in the Cleveland Ohio are, but I would imagine you should be able to find someone in your area whow would be willing to remove it. I do know that I had to go to a number of doctors & suffered for an entire moth before having mine removed though. I was lucky enough to find a surgeon who had previously had patients that had issues from the clip.

I unfortunately had picked up a surgical site infection, but I guess you run that risk with any operation, but the pain feom the clip was gone the same day it was removed. I had had a second pain, inmy chest wall, that I had had from the original procedure & that I am still dealing with, however it is nothing like the pain that was from the clip- I could not have done anything, work scholl in that kind of pain, and am grateful I found a doctor to remove it.

Please keep me posted & let me know if you have any other questions.

Thanks for your response.  i am glad you could find a doctor who could help you out.  Sounds like you have been through a lot.  I too, believe that this is a reaction from the clip.  The doctor I saw said in her 20 yrs she has never seen anyone have a reaction to the metal.  But she did say she can't say 100 percent that it could not happen.  I am wondering if it is effecting my nervous system.  Anyway, I will continue to look for a surgeon who will remove this.  The breast surgeon I saw was concerned about the surgery deforming my breast.   How has your surgery been?  Anything to prepare me for the removal?  She said it would be a 2 inch incision.

Thanks again for responding!!

The incision was about 2 inches maybe 3, but it was on the edge of the where the lighter skin color met the darker skin color of the nipple area so that it helps to camoflauge it. It has sa bit of a opuckered look but I have been told this will fill in with time. I would take the scar any day over the pain so it was worth getting it removed. I would suggest making sure that you have some good support bras or even sports bras to wear afterwards. The extra support seemed to help.

Keep me posted.

Dear butterfly, my mom just recently had a biopsy and had the titanium clip put is...I am very upset about it too...I believe that the severe hives she has is from the clip...they have said it was from the medicine they put on it and recomended benidril and topical benidril too with a loose gause dressing...however I am not totally convinced they are telling me the truth ...I am trying to investigate this more...I live 27 miles south of youngstown ohio...and the one doctor in Mamograghy told me NO BODY has ever had a problem with the clip...I don't believe him...I love my mom and want truthfull answers...thank you...please write back...ajbclb911@att.net thank you Cheryl

Hi,

I had a biopsy done in nov and had a titanium clip placed in the breast.  I have had symptoms within 3 weeks from swelling starting in the forearms, and face, up the arms (both), back of neck, back of knees, pelvis area, and head, jaw as well.  It is quite uncomfortable.  My allergist has helped me to rule out all other items except this clip and is int he process of getting a sample of it for a metal patch test.  This test has to be performed by the dermatologist and does not have a good track record of having a positive (has false negatives).  I see the surgeon who ordered the biopsy which was done at the hopsital under a local by the radiologist this wednesday.  The surgeon has already said that he did not place it and it would require extensive surgury to remove.  I am reading here that is can be done the same way it was put in.  The surgeon already does not believe the clip is a problem and has stated he will not remove unless a positive allergy test is found.  My primary care physician says there a re no known cases of this ever being a problem.  The allergist believes and says there are cases and it is entirely possible, and is praying for the positive result.  The allergist can not make the call to remove it othersise he would.  My appointment with the dermatologist is not until March 8 with a long cancellation list.  How do you get to someone who will just remove it based on my symptoms?  Did insurance cover?

Hi there,

It is my understanding that it can not be rmoved the same way the clip was put

in. I had to undergo regular surgery to remove it. I saw several doctors as well as a dermatologist, however I had to see a surgeon to have it removed. I also had seen other surgeons that would not remove it b/c I saw them shortly after it had been placed and they thought the symptoms would subside. I suffered for a full moth before I saw a surgeon who was willing to remove it. I was so week by the time I saw her, and was blacking out and vomiting from the pain...I guess my point is that I was visible ill and. My insurance did cover the surgery.

Whatever you do, just keep fighting for yourself. My family Dr. was wonderful. He had no doubt that it was the clip making me ill (as I was completely heathy before) so he helped get me in touch with variou doctors. I also didn't need a referral with my insuracne so I just went to multiple drs before finding one who was willing to clean up the mess so to speak.

Good luck, I hope you find help soon.

Hi,

Thank you for writing back.  It has been since Nov 16 that this clip was placed in.  Reactions for me didn't begin until about 3 weeks after (even though I started with swelling and soreness in the arm pit and breast) and we thought it was carpal tunnel due to the swelling and even had surgury, then thought allergic reaction and worked with the allergist to remove all other allergen causes.  I have been loosing weight as well, am nausious, but not throwing up.  The reactions are so intense at times that I am so out of it as my head swells.  Can I ask where you live (I am in the Lake George, ny area) and how you were able to find someone to remove it?  How do you even choose a doctor who will remove it?  We don't have too much faith in the surgeon we see tomorrow who ordered the biopsy in regards to saying he will remove it; however, must go thru the process of having him say no before going elsewhere.  We have then exhausted the primary care doctor who doesn't believe this allergy can exist, the allergist who can't recommend it and the surgeon who ordered it.  Meanwhile, I continue to get worse with no rest for my body in between as it reacts all the time.  We have talked about calling the radiologist at the hospital who did the biopsy, and then somehow finding other doctors, but who?

Hi, I am in Atlanta, Ga.  My breast has calmed down and now I am waiting because I have been going to Alternative Health doctors who are dealing with other symptoms and it is helping my overall health.  Many women had issues that I have heard from similar to yours and the only way it is resolved is by removing the clip.  It may take time but I would keep looking for a good surgeon to remove it.  Do your research and ask if they have ever removed a clip before.  A plastic surgeon may be a good choice since they deal with the breast.  I was ready to go out of state if need be but I do not have the severe sypmtoms you have.  Get your husband to complain but don't give up and don't let them tell you it is in your head.

Good luck!  I will never let them talk me into this again!

KB

Hi, I live in Marietta & just found out I had 3 of these markers put in me a week ago with out my knowledge or permission during 3 biopsies. I have immune issues & am mad as H#** about it. Did you ever find a good doc that would take them out and if you don't mind my asking, what practice / doctor put one in you? Have you heard anything about Millennium in Dunwoody? I have decided to dedicate myself part time for 1 year to fight for women's rights to be informed & have a choice.

My biopsy procedure was at Northside.  The head nurse was blonde, maybe Nancy?  She assured me you could have it removed later.  Lies!

I  haven't heard of that group..I am doing better, but I still have shakiness that is associated to coming on right after the clip was inserted.  I had names of doctors in CA who would remove it, but I have not gone that route yet.  It is a serious surgery and can deform your breast.

I

Hi Butterfly9773,

I'm living in Cleveland Ohio, and I have just found out I havd the same shooting pain on my right breast. I had biopcy in July last year, and there was no cancer found. I would like to contact you to get more information about the surgen you had for removing the clip for you. I called my Dr.'s office and his assistant told me that she had never heard about it the clip causing pain in her 30 years perfessionas.

thanks very much!

Kelly, I am so glad to hear that I am not the only one with symptoms from the marker clip.  Since I have gotten the clip I have been having chest pain in the area of the clip, down my left upper arm, and sometimes in my back but, still in the area of the clip from the back.  I use to have some burning symptoms  in my chest but now since I've had the clip it burns a lot but, I can deal with that I just can't stand having the pain feeling like someone is stabbing me and it's going through my back. I am schedule to have a lumpectomy on the 21st of October 2011 and I will definitely have it removed. I tahnks each one of you lady for the information you have annotated because I know that it is the clip and not me.  I also, told the doctor of my symptoms but, he didn't say anything about whether it had to do with the clip or not.  I told my husband about the pain and as I'm writing about my symptoms I am hurting.  I pray for ever last one of you ladies thanking God for a positive report for those who do not have cancer and I'm asking Him for a positive report for those who don't know their results yet including me and I'm asking Him for a  supernatural healing for those who have been diagnosed with the disease. 

The FDA has a website where you, the patient, can report any adverse reactions to medical devices such as the titanium breast clips.  It is so important that those of us that have had a reaction to the clip report it.  Just type in MedWatch in your search engine and you will find the site.  It is also called MedWatch online Voluntary Reporting Form.  You won't be able to fill in all the information and that is fine, just fill in what you can.  It is the same form that the facility that did the breast biospy can use.  But please don't rely on them to report the adverse event, also you can provide the details that they can't. 

The form is very easy to fill out and won't take much of your time.  If you prefer you can call them at 1-800-332-1088 to report the adverse reaction also. 

THe FDA then reports this information on the Maude Data Base, which you can look at online. 

I HAD 2 METAL CLIPS PLACED AFTER 2 BIOPSIES IN THE PAST MONTH.  I AM SCHEDULED FOR A MASTECTOMY THIS WEEK AND LOOKING FORWARD TO RELIEF FROM THIS PAIN.  NO ONE CAN TELL ME THAT IT IS NOT FROM THE CLIPS AS IT JUST STARTED LAST WEEK.  WHAT'S UPSETTING IS THAT NO ONE ASKED MY PERMISSION TO LEAVE THESE THINGS IN ME.  I WAS TOLD AFTER THE FACT. THESE PROCEDURES SHOULD NOT BE DONE WITHOUT THE PATIENTS KNOWLEDGE!!!!!!!

I had a stereotactic biopsy (benign) about a year ago and off and on I have shooting sharp pain where the marker has been inserted.   I can't understand why they keep telling women there are no side effects.  After reading from some of the women here, and with my own paid - it simply is not true.

There is pain, etc., associated with the markers!!

I find it quite aggravating and deceptive that the doctors that do biopsies never mention that a possible reaction could occur due to the titanium marker they place within your breast. Rare as that may be, it clearly has happened.  What about the fact that the marker can be optional ?  Shouldnt they have to mention that ?  It is our body - not theirs and we ought to be given that choice.  My Radiologist gave me the distinct impression that this was protocol for anyone having a vaccum assisted needle biopsy.  We as patients trust our care givers.  Instead we ought to question them on every little detail that they intend to do to our bodies. It was  explained to me sooooo casually as if it were nothing.  Even if just a few patients have reactions, or could have a reaction, it's their job to inform patients it's possible. Why are we not pre-tested for metal allergies ? I had a biospy about 5 weeks ago and the 4th week had a severe infection set in to my  breast. It was so tender at the site of the marker it brought tears to my eyes. I went in to have a Radiologist at the hospital check out my problem and he said he had NEVER seen anything like it before.  I am currently finishing a 7 day round of antibiotics but something still doesnt seem quite right.  I am of course nervous. In my particular case I broke out in a red rash and had breast tenderness.  My Gynocologist & I  noted the rash was  elevated in a couple areas.  I knew I had a horrible infection and yet the Radiologist told me it was from a change in my laundry detergent.  O really !  An infection that looked like the outline of flower petals all around my breast nipple area. NO where else on my body but my nipple area which was where the marker was placed. Thank God he thought I should see my Gynocologist and she gave me an antibiotic. Otherwise I'd have been sent home with a horrible infection.   It looks and feels better but I am still have stabbing pains and a burning sensation on and off. When I asked about the marker and a possible allergic reaction he said in 20 plus years of practice he has never seen anyone who had an allergic reaction and I need to get off the internet.  I am planning to have blood work done and sent in to determine if I am having a reaction to the titanium implant marker.  This has been a nightmare and it's not over yet.  My questions for you are who took out your marker and was it difficult to have them agree to do it ? I understand that it can be difficult to get a doctor to do that procedure.  Thank You and Gods Blessings to you for a speedy full recovery and a very long life.

Hi,  I too having major pain in my left breast - biospy and marker left Dec 09.  

Summary, pain masked as acid reflex or hiatal hernia, 3x in the ER, CT heart, then GI and endoscopy.  A lot of pain over the last month and escalating.  

CT heart great (40 year old no history to warrant issue) Endoscopy normal no acid reflex.  Dismissed when I called the original radiologist in my request to have marker removed.  It is my belief I am having an adverse reaction to the marker. She not convinced it was, my persistent to find resolution, even though dismissed at the clinic, but directed to the breast surgeon.  She did not examine my breast, we spoke in the office, I even stated as I left.  You are not even going to do an exam and or an ultrasound to check for a hematoma?  Her reply no your xrays looked good in Jul.   Well, it didn't sit well with me at all.

I am in excruciating pain for over a month.  Ruled out all other possibilities for me thus far.  

Bottom line, this is a "CLASS III" device placed in my body and I believe I am having a reaction please remove.  Upon calling other surgeons, they will not touch someone else's placement.  She can not remove but refer me to the breast surgeon.  While there in pain, I request assistance and then gently pushed follow new patient consult protocol.  That didn't work for me, I voiced their accountability and perhaps my lawyer should call if I am not taken with regard.  Made known this doesn't work for me, I need to see a surgeon asap, and I want a surgeon who would be willing to remove.  Same clinic a few hours later.  Surgeon (lovely man) examines, we find the pain is extreme to the touch when he examines my breast - at the spot of marker.  Ultrasound shows two hematomas, one where the marker is located.  Surgery booked for two days later.

I am in a lot of pain, and it is NOT ok to dismiss someones beliefs should they not match with their expert opinion.  It is a class III device and it is my belief women having issues, symptoms that are showing up the same for us should be reporting to the FDA.  I don't know that process yet.  I hope to find releif soon, I am not looking forward to having to have another surgery on my breast, but I need to be out of this horrible pain and willing to keep the process of elimination so I can have my life back.

Use your voice, it is our body and it is not ok to place a class III device without my written consent and then avoid my experience to what I am feeling...

C

I totally agree with you on this issue.  I feel highly violated.  It is my body and I had prior knowledge of the clip to even assess what possible side effects it could have.  I have scar tissue and inflamation around the clip area and a radiating pain up into my armpit and side.  I feel certain it is from this clip as it is against every principle I have to put anything in my body without researching it and this inflam ation showed up on the last ultra sound. I am sure you have to have surgery to remove the clip.  I am going back to the Breast Center in Orange County about it.

I am incensed when I read this website and see how many are affected and the dismissal of the medical community.  I wuld like to know when these titanium clips became standard practice?????

Lesley

Well thanks for checking that.  I have had no success yet getting a call back from the Breast Center on this so will stop in after work on Thursday and see what I can find out.  The U/S tecj there rec that I have a high level ultra sound because of all the inflamation and scar tissue...maybe I can find some kind of creme that eases the ache??

I really appreciate your research and comments though!

Thanks again!!

Lesley

Good Afternoon...

If you wouldn't mind sharing ... I am wondering what the outcome of your situation was ? I too am a victim of the Class III Marker placed in my breast.  sharonbuth@aol.com

Yes, I also notice some pain where the two titanium clips remain in my breast since 2009. The doctor and tech who does the ultrasound tell me it could not possibly be the clips.  I beg to differ.  I have had biopsies before and did not have this problem.  It is not a severe pain, just nagging and when I rolled out of bed and hit the floor one night on that side of the breast, I felt sharp pains in the area of the two clips.  Doctors should listen to their paitients.  I feel like I was part of this doctor's research study and that the clips were not necessary.  No cancer, by the way.

I would like to talk to anyone having issues with a breast core biopsy procedure or infection afterward.

what hospital

what type of infection

please feel free to contact me

I positively agree ... a year ago I had a stereotactic biopsy and I have nagging, sharp pains!!! 

Yes, I also notice some pain where the two titanium clips remain in my breast since 2009. The doctor and tech who does the ultrasound tell me it could not possibly be the clips.  I beg to differ.  I have had biopsies before and did not have this problem.  It is not a severe pain, just nagging and when I rolled out of bed and hit the floor one night on that side of the breast, I felt sharp pains in the area of the two clips.  Doctors should listen to their paitients.  I feel like I was part of this doctor's research study and that the clips were not necessary.  No cancer, by the way.

Thanks so much for sharing your info with us! I am really concerned now since I am having continual shking and trembling in my legs, feet, & hands.  It is getting worse.  Do you have any further discovery concerning these clips?  Do you know of any good surgeons who are willing to remove these?  Thanks for caring!!!

Wow! so glad to read this.  I have been worried because ever since I had a biopsy marker placed after a stereotactic biopsy my breast has been itching.  I go back soon for a one-year follow up so will ask the doc but it is good to know someone else has experienced this, just in case they try to tell me it is in my head.

Thanks Donna for your post.

Elaine

I glad to hear this, next Tuesday I go in for a sterotactic biopsy and was told that a marker will be placed inside.  After reading all the stories here I know what to look forward to. Also if the itching begins I will know why.  Thank you for sharing with us.

I was just diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma after a stereotactic biopsy. I too had the titanium clip placed and have been in pain ever since. I know without a doubt that this is an inflammatory response to the clip as I was not in any pain before the biopsy. I had the expected initial soreness after the procedure and a substantial amount of bruising. After the initial soreness faded I was left with this irritating sensation and shooting pains, as well as severe nipple tenderness. My primary doc has placed me on  an anti-inflammatory med as well as a pain med. I will be having a lumpectomy in the near future and I can tell you with all certainty that this clip will be removed at that time, as I will insist upon it. I cannot live with this kind of pain for the rest of my life.

Thanks a bunch. I'm glad I found this site. I appreciate your support.

Hi - I am from CA and had a core needle biopsy and also had a clip inserted about 7 weeks ago.  I found out I have ADH (atypicial ductal hyperplasia) and have to have surgery in a week. 

The problem is I have been having a Horrible sore throat for over 6 weeks now.

I have been to the Doctor for the sore throat and he thinks it is viral due to the fact all throat cultures came back negetative.  I Never have had a problem with my throat and certainly nothing that would last this long.  I have tried every remedy imaginable and it will Not go away.

Then all of  a sudden today my husband asked me when Excactly did you start getting the sore throat - was it before your core needle biosy or after.  I said a couple of days after.  I got a low grade fever and chills and then just this raging sore throat.  That's when my Husband said - I bet you are having a reaction to the Titanium Marker they put in you.  You body is trying to reject IT!

Wow I wonder if that could be possible.  Well I have my Surgery in a week for the ADH - so guess what - I am going to ask my Surgeon to Remove the Marker!

We will see if my throat finally quits hurting after that!  Any thoughts???

Dear PJH, I would so much appreciate it if you could tell where you read about the symptoms disappearing after titanium is removed.  I have been communicating with others on medhelp.org regarding trouble with titanium dental implants.  We are all contemplating removal of various sorts of titanium which has become osseointigrated into the jaw.  We would love it if we could find people who have gone through with removal of titanium and since have had their symptoms disappear.  Any info. would be helpful.  Thanks.

Where in Ca. did you have your biopsy?

I have to have one also and they insist that I have a marker put in and I don't want it. I don't know where to go to have the biopsy where they won't put a marker in.

I am going to Long Beach Breast Center.

Connie

Thanks to all who have posted. I have recently been having burning, radiating pain after having a sterotactic biopsy and titanium markers placed in my breast. I will be seeking to have them removed.

I too have had this burning and pain which I never had before the biopsy and the insertion of the clip. They do not tell you they will insert the clip at least I wasn't told until after the surgery. I go back for the results tomorrow 12/6/  so I know what I am going to insist on!!

Thank you ladies for sharing

D- NY

Thanks to all the women who have posted on this site and shared their stories.  A titanium breast clip was placed in my breast after a biospy on April 30, 2010.  On the 3rd day I noticed that I was out of breathe after walking up 10 stairs.  On the 4th day I woke up with a sore neck.  On the 5th day, the sore neck was much worse and I could not turn my head from side to side.  The breast pain from the biopsy is gone by day 6 but there is a new pain in the breast.  It is an achy, heavy feeling.  The pain is still in my neck, but has now also moved into my shoulder, shoulder blade, down my arm, and up into my ear and my jaw-all on the right side which is the side the biopsy was on.  I do not feel well and I know there is something wrong.  I am advised from the nurse at the breast center to see my surgeon who ordered the biospy but did not perform it.  She is out of town so I am referred to her partner.  I am also having tingling and numbness in my right hand.  The surgeon completely dismisses the possiblity that my symptoms could be due to the titanium clip.  My pain continues so I decide to go see my primary health care provider who is a nurse practioner and is a very dedicated health professional.  She listened intently and concluded that the titanium marker was the most likely cause of the symptoms I am having.  She referred me to a breast specialist who is also a surgeon.  This surgeon performed an ultrasound and noticed that there was a hematoma present.  She agreed that the clip could be the cause of the problem (her nurse however was adamant that there was no possible way that the clip could be causing the problem) but she prefers that we wait until the hematoma is gone and the breast has healed better before removing the clip.  She also thought it was possible that the hematoma could be causing the pain. I agreed to wait her recommended 4 weeks.  After 2 weeks the pain became much worse.  I am now experiencing sharp stabbing pain and biting pain in the breast that will sometimes cause me to flinch.  After the 4 weeks she repeats the ultrasound that showed the hematoma was almost gone and she concluded that the hematoma was not causing the pain and that it must be from the clip.  She did say that she had not heard of this happening but that didn't mean that it couldn't.  She removed the clip without taking me to surgery. After 4 days, the pain in my breast was completely gone.  The other symptoms are slowly resolving.  I do still have pain in my neck and my shoulder but I feel it is slowing getting better. 

If you are having symptoms that are not normal, please listen to your body and then find a health care professional that will listen to you!

Please tell me how they removed the clip without taking you to surgery!!  I want this OUT; had biopsy last week.  Thanks for the post :)

I had breast biopsy yesterday (Jan 3,2011). I was not told before the biopsy about inserting the clips. However when the nurse told me after the surgery about the clips being placed inside, I got very upset. Don't understand why they are not informing the patients before the surgery.  I am terrified as to what adverse reaction the clips are going to cause. At this point keeping my fingers  crossed about the biopsy result.

Please tell me how they removed the clip without taking you to surgery!!  I want this OUT; had biopsy last week.  Thanks for the post :)

It was a surgical procedure but she was able to do it in the breast biopsy room where they perform the stereotactic biopsies.  I was given 15 mg of Valium before the procedure and it worked very well, I don't remember much about having the procedure done.  I never felt her numb the area or felt the inicison.  I have about a 1 to 1/2 inch scar.  I had 2 stitches and a lot of surgical glue that stayed on for about 4 weeks. I had to have someone drive me home.  They had to put me in a wheelchair and take me to the car (as I said, the valium worked really well!) but after about 45 minutes I was able to walk by myself.   The incision was sore for about 6 weeks, but I quit applying ice too quickly and as soon as I started doing that again it really helped the pain.  It was nice not having to go the operating room, having an IV, and being given anesthesia but if that had been the only way to have it removed I would have done it. 

Good luck!

I had no mass/lump, no cancer, no pre-cancer.  Now surgeon tells me I have atypical hyperplasia something or other.  NO MORE MAMMOGRAMS for me since I found this link on mammograms causing cancer.  http://www.healingdaily.com/conditions/mammograms.htm.  Pretty soon, they will just skip the mammos and we'll just go in for our "annual biopsy."  lol.

http://www.rsna.org/Media/rsna/RSNA09_newsrelease_target.cfm?id=446

CHICAGO - Low-dose radiation from annual mammography screening may increase breast cancer risk in women with genetic or familial predisposition to breast cancer, according to a study presented today at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).

"For women at high risk for breast cancer, screening is very important, but a careful approach should be taken when considering mammography for screening young women, particularly under age 30," said Marijke C. Jansen-van der Weide, Ph.D., epidemiologist in the Department of Epidemiology and Radiology at University Medical Center Groningen in the Netherlands. "Further, repeated exposure to low-dose radiation should be avoided."

Women who are at high risk for breast cancer need to begin screening at a younger age, because they often develop cancer earlier than women at average risk. However, according to Dr. Jansen-van der Weide and colleagues, young women with familial or genetic predisposition to the disease may want to consider alternative screening methods to mammography, because the benefit of early tumor detection in this group of women may be offset by the potential risk of radiation-induced cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, there is strong evidence supporting the benefits of mammography for women after age 40. However, there are conflicting reports regarding the benefits of mammography for women under 40. Alternative screening methods such as ultrasound and MRI may be made available to younger women, but are generally used as an adjunct to mammography.

The American Cancer Society recommends that some women at high risk (greater than 20 percent lifetime risk) should have MR imaging and mammography every year, typically beginning at age 30.

The researchers conducted an analysis of peer-reviewed, published medical research to determine if low-dose radiation exposure affects breast cancer risk among high-risk women. Out of 47 articles found on the topic, six were selected by the reviewers for inclusion in their analysis. Four studies looked at the effect of exposure to low-dose radiation among breast cancer gene mutation carriers, and two studies researched the effect of radiation on women with a family history of breast cancer. Using data from these studies, the researchers were able to calculate pooled odds ratios to estimate radiation-induced breast cancer risk.

The results showed that among all high-risk women in the study, average increased risk of breast cancer due to low-dose radiation exposure was 1.5 times greater than that of high-risk women not exposed to low-dose radiation. High-risk women exposed before age 20 or with five or more exposures were 2.5 times more likely to develop breast cancer than high-risk women not exposed to low-dose radiation.

"Our findings suggest that low-dose radiation increases breast cancer risk among these young high-risk women, and a careful approach is warranted," Dr. Jansen-van der Weide said.

She noted that this analysis is based on a small study sample and should be interpreted with caution. Dr. Jansen-van der Weide also pointed out that these results apply only to specific high-risk groups of women. Women at average risk were not assessed in this study.

In general, early detection with mammography and prompt treatment can significantly improve a woman's chances of survival. More than 90 percent of women whose breast cancer is found in an early stage will survive. For young, high-risk women and their doctors, it is important to weigh the benefits against any potential risk when making a decision about annual breast cancer screening with mammography.

Coauthors are Geertruida H. de Bock, Ph.D., Marcel J.W. Greuter, Ph.D., Liesbeth Jansen, M.D., Ph.D., Jan C. Oosterwijk, Ph.D., Ruud Pijnappel, M.D., Ph.D., and Matthijs Oudkerk, M.D., Ph.D.

Hello, my girlfriend just had x-rays of her right breast,after previosly[two yrs ago} having a titnium marker clip put in her left breast,she seemed o.k with no reactions from the implant,now after beeing radiated she is experieancing alot of pain in the area of the implant is this normal or could the radiation caused a problem she is 44 yrs old.I'm at joesunseri@gmail.com

Hi,

Your story sounds similar to mine.  I need resolution.  I too had a core biopsy done in Nov (beneign).  I started with symptoms within 3 weeks with swelling in my forearms, up the arms, in the arm pits (pain in armpits)around the breast where the biopsy was done, back of knees, pelvic area, top of thighs, head, back of neck, face.  My allergist has worked with me to remove all other allergy items, and is down to the most unlikey, the titanium clip.  He has made an appointment for me with the dermatologist who will administer a metal patch test of the clip itself.  This appointment isn't until April 8 and there is a long cancellation list.  This patch test has false negatives.  I see the surgeon who ordered the biopsy on Wednesday. The surgeon already has told the allergist that he did not put it in and has never seen this allergy before, even though he ordered it.  The surgeon also says it would be an extensive surgury to remove the clip where I have read here that it can be removed the same way it was put in.   I also had a very large hematoma and called the breast center within a few days.  The nurse stated it was normal and asked the size (1 inch plus, very sore).  My breast is still very sore after almost 4 months.  How do I go abouth finding someone who will remove it?  The allergist can't say remove it although he would like to, my primary care doesn't believe in it, and I don't think I will be getting much support form the surgeon.  All along I sit in this reactive phase of an allergy with many supporting allergies to back it up.  I am allergic to other metals as I can not wear a watch or certain earrings, zyrtek (allergy med with titanium dioxide), zantac (also has tit di), make ups with tit di, suntan lotions with tit di, plus adhesives, wool...  How do you find someone who will believe and remove it?  I'd even travel to get this taken care of.  What about insurance coverage?

Hi.....please go to the bottom of the page where I wrote a big paragraph in bold font and read what I had to say....i think it may be of help to you. I read you said that you will be having a patch test done to test for the titanium allergy....from my readings the patch test does not usually work for this. You need a blood test....please scroll down to my other post for the info....hope it can be of some help to you.

Dear Proverbs, Thank you for your story - it gives me hope that I'm not loosing my sanity.  I was told that no one else  had ever complained about the titanium clip.  I've put up with the pain almost 2 years and I've just had it!  Did your insurance pay for the removal?  The radiologist who put mine in, said he would take it out the same way.  How are you doing now that some time has passed?

Hello,

Sorry I am just now responding to your question!

My insurance company did pay for the removal of the clip.  I would love to tell you that I am pain free and symptom free.  I am definetly better than I was but I do still have some issues.  I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that the clip was the cause of my pain and symptoms.  Unfortunately, I feel like a car that has been in a wreck and will never be the same again. 

I hope you have had yours out by now!

How are you doing? 

Hi Proverbs, nice to hear from you.  I saw my GYN for advice this past week.  She was totally against a Radiologist removing the clip and insisted I should see a surgeon, which I will do.  Now the  question is WHO.  The GYN thinks there is a build up of scar tissue and probably inflamation that will have to be cleaned out, but it seems to reason that more surgery will cause more scar tissue.  It's been almost 2 years since the clip was put in.  I'd hate to think I'll have the same issue with scar tissue after 2 more years.  I feel like I'm on a merry-go-round and I'm afraid to jump off.  Sorry to hear that your symptoms are lingering but glad to know you're better.  Let's pray you keep on getting better with time.

hi my name is diane i am from virginia i had my biopsy on jan 12 2012 since then i have developed a rash, shooting pains and lumps in the breast that wasnt there before. i went to the doctor today however they said no way it could not be from the marker they placed in but i have never had this pain until now please help what do i do any suggestions please call 804-512-7527

Hello Donna-

I just read your note regarding adverse effect from the metal marker inserted. I too was told that no one has suffered from the marker placed in the breast .They are coverung up this becauce they dont want a law suit--wel I got news for them ..I am pursuing this to the fullest extent of the law. Mine was placed 2 months ago ,,several ,surgeon visits,,and it high time womwn are made aware that these markers are harmful and dangerous for women. I have a huge reddish,fever at site and severec itching as well. Goin in this week to follow up the steriods I was put on for one week-obviously it did NOTHING to alleviate the symptoms. I will keep you posted on my continued pain and suffering!

Joni

Hello Joni:

I am online like yourself attempting to find information on the Bard Ultraclip II - Titanium Marker. Do they not hear the cries of the many womany begging for help. Recently I had a biopsy done and they placed one of the titanium markers in my mass. I immediately had severe pain and was dismissed over and over again. All the while my entire body is breaking out in severe hives and my body is starting to shut down. I attempted to get anyone to listen to me as I know when my body is having a reaction. Well let me tell all the women on this site. Please inform yourself prior to having this clip placed in your body. IT IS VERY DANGEROUS! They almost killed me. The only reason they removed it from my body is I ended up in a surgeons office who had to addmit me for emergency surgery last Friday due to the fact that my heart was slowed down to a pulse of 38 and the breathing was shutting off. I agree with you these medical supposed professionals need to take notice there is a problem here. We need to find a way to ban together and get something done. No person and No woman should ever be made to feel like garbage or like they are going crazy again. I do not want to wait until someone is dead to say I should have made my voice loud.

Joni or any other woman wanting to help in the search for help and truth please contact me at daisysmile1996@gmail.com.

Thank you, Daisysmile

Hi Daisy,  How are you doing these days?   I pray you're over it and are well by now.  I'm guessing you've received hundreds of e-mails since giving your address on healthcentral.com.  I too, tried to send you an e-mail but was told it wasn't a valid address.  After so much pain I can hardly stand it for over a year and a half and being told it couldn't possibly be the clip that's causing it, I finally got the bright idea to check "on line" for any other supposedly "crazy" ladies who might have the similar problem.  Wow! Was I ever surprised to find all you gals out there.  Truthfully I was relieved to know that it's not in my blond head and then I got mad.  I was flat out lied to, more than once, when I went for help.  It seems like there's this big "cover-up" from the medical community - or is that in my head too?  Regardless, I'm scheduling the removal immediately.

Are there any action groups that you know of who plan on bringing this out of the closet?  If so, let me know what I can do.

Best wishes for your continued good health.

Hello

    I went in for a needle biopsy 3 weeks ago and was not told that the titanium marker clip had been placed until after the procedure was done.  I went through extreme pain through the entire biopsy.  Now 3 weeks out, I am still in pain and my breast is so tender, it hurts to wear a bra.   I want this clip removed, but do not want to use the same barbaric surgeon that did my biopsy.   I am to have an excisional biopsy next month to remove more tissue and the surgeon has agreed to remove the clip.  I will be trying to locate another surgeon as I do not trust this doctor.  Women need to know before hand about this clip. 

Hi....please check into www.melisa.org  ....i wrote a huge post about this below and just want to inform others of the only blood test i've found that actually will test you for titanium allergy. A patch test by an allergist does not work, it needs to be an actual blood test from my understanding. I had my gallbladder removed 9 months ago and have suffered since and had many test all of which determine nothing. I have finally started to wonder if it's from the titanium clips they put in me...which led me to my search. The test is called "the melisa test" "pronounced "meliza"...i am going to be doing it next week or so, they faxed my family doctor a consent form, he faxed it back and now they will ship me a kit that is safe to ship my blood sample in. It is a certified lab in South Amboy that does this testing. I hope this can be of some help. Best wishes....and i hope others read this post too. I don't mean to sound like an advertisement for this, but i know how badly i'm suffering and how sad and depressed i am feeling and if the info i've come across can help another, i feel it's my obligation to pass it along.

I too have two titanium marker clips in my breasts - one on each side.   Ever since the first one was placed - my breasts have itched like crazy from inside.

The first one was 4 yrs ago and just had one on the other side.  My doctor too told me it was not the clips, but was my "bras" that make me itch - get cotton ones.  I have tried all kinds of lotions, oil, soaps, creams.  But it is always there.

At least I know now that someone else has this problem.

Sue

Well, I did not know about anyone else having these symptoms until I came across this blog site yesterday. I emailed the manufacturers of the clips, but I doubt I will get a response.  I asked the doctor before I had the second biopsy two weeks ago about the chance that the first one was making me itch all the time and she said it was not the clip - it is titanium and there are no allergic reasctions.  So, I went ahead with the second biopsy and clip.   I did have a reaction as soon as the process was over:  cold sweat, nausea and shaking.  They told me it was from the meds they injected to numb me.  I also had a huge rash and blister from the steri-strips.  But those symptoms went away.

I am plagued by constant itching just on my breasts.  I will check with my physician about having them removed, now that I know that I am not crazy and not the only one with this problem.   Thanks!

I had a core needle biopsy and a marker placed. I had unremitting pain from that day forward. Since removing a lump is really up to the woman (the patient), and not the health care provider, after 6 months, I consulted a 2d breast surgeon. He did believe my complaint of unremitting pain after the marker was placed. I had a lumpectomy, with removal of the marker. The next day, while still coping with surgical pain, the stabbing, non-stop pain from the marker was gone. At the post-op check, the doctor remarked that the marker must have been placed on or near a nerve which lead to the stabbing pain.

Pain is considered a vital sign, and doctors should not ignore it.

I am online like yourself attempting to find information on the Bard Ultraclip II - Titanium Marker. Do they not hear the cries of the many womany begging for help. Recently I had a biopsy done and they placed one of the titanium markers in my mass. I immediately had severe pain and was dismissed over and over again. All the while my entire body is breaking out in severe hives and my body is starting to shut down. I attempted to get anyone to listen to me as I know when my body is having a reaction. Well let me tell all the women on this site. Please inform yourself prior to having this clip placed in your body. IT IS VERY DANGEROUS! They almost killed me. The only reason they removed it from my body is I ended up in a surgeons office who had to addmit me for emergency surgery last Friday due to the fact that my heart was slowed down to a pulse of 38 and the breathing was shutting off. I agree with you these medical supposed professionals need to take notice there is a problem here. We need to find a way to ban together and get something done. No person and No woman should ever be made to feel like garbage or like they are going crazy again. I do not want to wait until someone is dead to say I should have made my voice loud.

Joni or any other woman wanting to help in the search for help and truth please contact me at daisysmile1996@gmail.com.

OMG. This is absolutely amazing... I never thought of looking this question up... I had a Clip put in around 2000. Ever Since then, I get excruciating Pain in that One Breast. It puts me in tears, it hurts so bad. It almost makes me think I am about to have a Heart Attack.... I also complained about this to my doctor and he said Oh no, thats not the cause of your breast hurting... But I know it is....  I can rub that certain spot and the pain goes away for a little bit ... It doesnt hurt everyday either... WOW... I cant believe all the women who have had this procedure and are hurting like this..... This just amazes me.....

Thank you so much for this info.  I too have had a Marker placed in my left breast in jan 2011.  Since then it seems like I have had one infection after another,  Bronchitus, Sinus, internal Breast Itching and weakness in all of my body.  I just recently commented  to my husband how strange my breast feels,sometimes pain,sometimes cold numbness.  These posts have been a blessing to me. Thank you all for your info.  I rarely look up info like this but thank God I did.  I am very disappointed in the insensitivity towards us  by the medical field.  lUCKILY some Drs.  still honor there oath to serve and heal.   My prayers are with you all.  ps I will look into takeing the MELISA TEST..

Just a quick update to let you all know that I mentioned the marker placed inside of me to my Gyno.   She too feels that it is all in my head and it is a coincidence.    Since I know my body and I know it is not all in my head I still feel the itching, pain and numbness at diffrent times in side of my breast.  I am now over my Bronchitus and pneumonia and I will be seeing another surgeon next tuesday.  I will be asking her to remove the clip.   Hopefully I can be rid of this and move forward with my recovery.  I hope all of you who still have this clip find a way to have it removed soon. 

For all you ladies who are suffering from the titanium markers I too have been pressured by doctors that they can't do the biopsy without the marker. I am fixing to be an advocate for women on this issue as I have been to a news reporter in Greenville South Carolina on this subject and have been ignored.I am about to go a step further as I have great concerns for the women suffering as they are this is an outrage it is a violation on our health.Women in torament, who knows maybe they are experimenting on women to see how the body reacts to the titanium maybe they are going to use this metal for the mark of the beast later on. Never the less its a serious issue I need help from anyone who cares to help me address the world about this.--at: (deanandfelicia@facebook.com..or..deanandfelicia@yahoo.com..god bless all  !!!!

I just had my biopsy last August 10, and I wasn;t aware about the negative effects of the procedure since my radiologist and nurse assured me nothing is going to happen to me. After reading all of this I am very scared i thought my nightmare is over. I just really hope it won't cause a negative effect in my body, right now I still have bruises from the procedure and waiting for it to heal. I just hope that nothing is going to happen to me after an excruciating and expensive procedure I've gone throuhg. For those who experienced side effects I will pray for your safety and recovery. Be strong pls. keep in touch with me if you can ziur_nylanoj@yahoo.com 

Hello Phyllis,

Thank you for your reply, I already knew the result of my biopsy and it's non-cancerous so I am very happy. As of now my left breast is doing well. No adverse effect except the bruise which I think is normal. I am applying hot and cold compress everyday so slowly slowly it changes. My bruise now is starting to change to a lighter bruise. No allergies and itching. It's already the 6th day after the biopsy so I am really fine :) Thank you for the information you posted in this thread it made me feel better and relieved.

Does anyone know the name of a plastic or other type surgeon, or a hospital, where they will remove these titanium clips? My surgeon is no use, she refuses to admit there is any problem. I am in the northeast - I will travel to any reputable dr who will remove this biopsy clip.

I am from the northeast and seeing a breast surgeon on Oct 13 2011...I went to my gyno on Sept 20th and told her that I have been having lots of pain in my left breast...she said that this was NOT Normal and set me up with a surgeon..I told her that I could be doing nothing and I would get a sharp pain like someone was stabbing me with a knife..I have had my marker clip put in a few years ago and I would get twitches here and there with pain..I am also having problem with the transvaginal mesh sling but I am part of a class action suit on that one..I wouldn't be surprise if there was going to be a class action suit on these marker clips..I will let you know what the surgeon said..I am from the Saratoga Springs NY area.

I am also having clip problems but I had titanium placed in my back and was ok with that.  I think it could also be the glue as I was highly allergic to the glue on the tape they wrapped my breast in years ago when they took out another lump, which happened to be coagulated clips from my bc surgery!

My breast was oozing and the skin just peeled off.  It was the tape. 

Now my itching is horrible like everyone elses however I'm not having any pain, just itching.

The fact that my the clips coagulated from my surgery might mean something.

I have also been know to "spit stitches."

Thank you so much for your response.  Yes, my biopsy was negative for cancer.  After going through numerous test and checks, my surgeon now thinks that this is most possibly granulomatous mastitis.  She thinks we should start steroid treatment before surgery as surgery does not guarantee that it won't come back.  I am terrified of drugs let alone steroids.

I am getting a second opinion at NYU next week.  In the meantime, I have this lump that has been growing on top of my breast (right on top of one of the biopsy areas) and now it started to bleed a little (very painfull too).

I have been asking the doctors whether this could be a reaction to the markers.  Though they say they don't want to rule it out, I don't hear them talking about removing them as a treatment option.

Even if this is gm, I am not sure why it started to grow right after the biopsy.  I am also concerned that it sounds like there is no certain way of treating this condition.  Any inputs?