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Bronch biopsy didn't work. Should I do a IR biopsy? Or, surgery?

Lung Cancer | Last Active: Oct 19, 2023 | Replies (14)
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@pb50

I’d be interested in whether they might entertain a wedge resection if lymph nodes are negative and margins are clean. I had a 1.4cm mass in left lower lobe and they first did a wedge section containing the mass and sent to pathology who confirmed it was malignant. So he then took the entire lower left lobe. Only a week later did I get the rest of the path report - all lymph nodes negative and all margins clean. I felt then that perhaps the lobectomy was overkill and my recovery might have been easier if he has stopped with the wedge resection.

That said, my mass was so close to the outside edge of my lung he could easily access it etc - that may not be the case with your mass on an upper lobe. But I would surely ask if wedge resection is an option.

All that to say I’d ask if it will influence his action if it is malignant. Because of my experience I’d be inclined to seek the guided biopsy.

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Replies to "I’d be interested in whether they might entertain a wedge resection if lymph nodes are negative..."
covington | @covington | Oct 17, 2023

Thank you so much.

Yes. As I understand it, a wedge resection(?) is an option since the lymph nodes were clean.

I was given these two options through a nurse - basically, what do you want to do:

- external IR directed needle biopsy (issue being that there could be similar problems seeing the area as I had with the bronchoscopy).

- Wedge resection. And if, during that operation, a lobectomy if on-the-spot testing says it's needed.

I have zero medical background, and I find it odd that major decision is left to me. I'd rather the experts dictate which direction to take.

So, I'm here asking for you, kind people, opinions.

Thanks, much.

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