What we wish we knew before the biopsy

I don't know how many people had a biopsy like Kurt.  The doc took his multiple samples and put them into 2 vials, 1 left and 1 right.  His results were PCa on both sides.  At the time, we didn't know any different.  It wasn't until the day before his surgery, that the surgeon said "that is the cheap way to do a biopsy". And that labs charge per vial.  Who Cares!!!!!  His surgeon went in blind, not knowing where the cancer actually was.  Kurt's dad had the 12 vial biopsy.  We know exactly where his PCa is.  In Kurt's case, the doc had to remove parts of nerves as to make sure he didn't leave cancer behind.  Kurt is very adiment about getting the warning out to others about to have the biopsy.  Don't let your doc do the "cheap" kind.  Insist on more vials!!!!  Doesn't mean more samples, just seperated better!  Good luck to all!  Courtney

These posts indicate one of the problems with PCa, if a needle does not contact cancer during the biopsy there is no cancer. 

zippy had 3 or 12 with cancel the first one and then only one of 45 with cancer. 

I had 2 negative biopsys and some feel I have had cancer for years (Gleason 9) and that the samples just did not find the PCa.

I have come to believe that the more samples taken over a wider area of the prostate the better.  With the newer methods (lots less discomfort) more samples would be my request to my urologist.  I agree there should be nothing done on the 'cheap'.

Keep 

 

Kziz,

I saw you did your surgery in Austin. Was it done by Dr Fagin? If so what's your opinion of the Dr and the facility. I have an appointment to see Dr Fagin on April 2 but I would like to know your input since you went through the experience.

Thanks

KrisP