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BioZorb (titanium) site marker for breast cancer
When I had my lumpectomy in September 2020 my surgeon inserted a bioZorb for a permanent place marker for the site of cancer and to help keep the breast in good structure. I knew nothing about this prior to having breast cancer and I was told this is how the surgery is done. Has anyone else had this bioZorb and if so has the experience been for you. I am getting ready to have radiation and it makes me more fearful of a bad outcome having this in my breast. I was told this was to help send the radiation straight to the previous cancer site but now I"m told they will radiate the whole breast. Any information will be helpful, thank you Zoe
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@beebeebaby123
Zoe, having those markers helps in locating tumor site not only for breast surgeons, but for radiation oncologists to pinpoint where you have the radiation. I had to undergo two different lumpectomy/segmental mastectomies, after which it was necessary for me to have 30 radiation treatments. I was told there would be no problems with that or future MRIs, etc. (Because my lymph nodes eroded into the lymphatic system, my breast and upper area to my neck had to be radiated as well). When you have radiation, follow the instructions given on what lotions to use. At one point the radiation oncologist prescribed a burn ointment when it got more painful (Silvadene), but I think it's because I had so many treatments and actually, but the skin recovered in good time. I hope this helps.
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1 ReactionHi @beebeebaby123, like @trixie131 said, BioZorb actually helps with radiation. The coils (markers) help target the radiation. Here's an article and excerpt that helps to explain:
- BioZorb Leaves Its Mark on Breast Cancer https://www.thehealthjournals.com/biozorb-leaves-mark-breast-cancer/
"Biozorb ... is a small, three-dimensional marker used in women with early-stage breast cancer. It provides a target for aiming radiation therapy at the tumor site, which helps minimize damage to healthy tissue. The device is a walnut-sized coil that features six titanium clips arranged in a precise array. At the time of the lumpectomy, BioZorb is placed where the tumor was. A radiation oncologist later uses the location of those clips to know exactly where to direct the radiation beam. The device is eventually absorbed by the body over the course of about a year, but the clips remain. That makes it easier do follow-ups using routine mammograms."
Have you started radiation therapy now?
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1 ReactionHas anyone incurred problems with these Titaainium marker Clips? Are they really necessary?
Hi Bosco, I moved your question about the titanium marker clips to this existing discussion started by @beebeebaby123. I did this so you can connect with Zoe and @trixie1313 and read their posts as they talk about their experience with the marker clips.
Bosco, are you having issues with the clips?
No, but Im going to get a biopsy with a marker clip and I want to here others input
Are these BioZorb clips put in routinely at Mayo or only if they are planning to do radiation? I have a double lumpectomy planned for mid-November but they are not planning radiation post surgery.
@haleyann, often, a small metal marker is left at the site within your breast so the area can be easily identified on future imaging tests. The marker is not for radiation only. You may wish to ask your Mayo Clinic surgeon if a marker will be used for you and how it is helpful.