"(Almost) Painless Biopsy"

Called in for an outpatients Bone Marrow biopsy and related blood tests. Everyone (including a Doctor) had told me how painful this would be and was a prelude for diagnosing cancer, so I was scared stiff on arrival. First impressions of the outpatients department was favourable - clean and bright, with everyone rushing about but cheerful.

The two members of staff who were going to do the procedure were very solicitous and the whole procedure was explained in one lump - and then gone over again, step by step, to make sure I was aware of what would happen and why. I then hit the first of two problems - the table I had to lay on was not built for obese patients! I think that it was about six inches wide and needed all three of us to get me into the required position. Once in situ the male Nurse showed me how to use the gas/air machine if I felt I needed it (and stood in vision ready to hold me down if I tried to escape?). The biopsy was conducted with a constant commentary of exactly what was happening and there was only one little bit of pain which made me wince, then I was told it was all over and that I just had to give them an armful of blood. This done I was taken back to the Day Room for a very welcome cup of coffee and to await transport home. I had been told that I had a dressing over the biopsy site which had to be kept on for 24 hours, but the second fault I found with the procedure was that no one said the hip was going to be bruised and very uncomfortable to sleep on for two days!

My conclusions: nice atmosphere, clean, uncluttered areas. Great staff who treated me with professionalism, courtesy and kindness. They seemed genuinely intrested in my views - and even laughed at my jokes. I hope never to have to undergo another bone marrow biopsy but if I do, I hope that I have it in the same place with the same staff. My respects and thanks to them both.