Info please . . . . .

• By pattyp1
• Posted June 22, 2008 at 2:13 pm
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hey, Kathy,
before I go on - I think I just picked up on something - if there were multiple tumors, they could take their pick for biopsy - if there is only one, that keeps the word "operable" on the table. I pray this is the case.

Now - there are other procedures available to do the biopsy. jrrees (Jonathan) had one - it was a needle aspiration technique where they went in through the chest. Maybe he could give you some words of wisdom.

It sounds like what you need is a diagnostic professional. I also have heard wonderful things about Sloan. Cleveland Clinic as well. Also Dana Farber in Boston. The MD Anderson response kind of annoys me - I think it would be worth another try because of the difficulty getting the diagnosis.

It is so nice of you to be Vicki's warrior princess!!! We all need friends like you.
Sending hugs
Pat

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• By Isunique
• Posted June 22, 2008 at 2:25 pm
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Hi Kathy
I had pretty much the same thing has Vicki. I had Cat scans, Pet scans and a Fine needle biopsy/guided with a Cat scan, through the chest wall. I was told the same thing about it being close to my heart, but the doc did a great job and I had a minimal lung collapse (5%). That procedure is done on an outpatient basis. Please tell Vicki good luck, and my prayers and thoughts are with you both.

Sarah

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• By lyaeger
• Posted June 22, 2008 at 2:37 pm
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Me too. It wasn't a fun procedure but it was done through my back.

Linda

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• By lorbethm
• Posted June 22, 2008 at 6:35 pm
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That's weird what you said about MD Anderson. I had a biopsy that at first said cancer and then didn't say cancer, but MD Anderson took me anyway. I thought they would do their own biopsy, so it surprises me that they are refusing her. They took me even when Scott & White said it wasn't cancer (and it was actually).

I don't have any advice on the biopsy. Mine was fine needle aspiration, but they went down my throat to do it.

Hugs and prayers are with her.

Lorie

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• By BetsyT
• Posted June 25, 2008 at 1:19 pm
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If she has an option with Med. providers,please tell her to Run-Don't walk from Kaiser...Betsy

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• By chuck
• Posted June 26, 2008 at 2:14 pm
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I am also close to Bay Area. I live in Modesto, Ca. My cancer was also to lungs and close to heart. Inopererable. They did a needle bi-op thru my back. A little sore, but was done first to determine type of cancer for chemo treatment. Run from Kaiser, please. I have Pacificare and they have been excellent. Seek every opinion and avenue you can for your friend. God bless, C. Darnell

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• By peyz33
• Posted June 26, 2008 at 2:25 pm
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I went to NYU in New York City - I feel (my own opinion) they are better than Sloan - more caring and faster moving - I went to a great surgeon - Dr. Bernard Crawford - 212-731-5580 - genius and he saved MY life.
Good Luck
Karen

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