Mammograms

[carson]

I had a mammogram a couple days ago. I have a central line in my right upper chest, by my clavicle. The woman doing the test taped my line upwards to my shoulder - she was careful not to pull or hurt it in any way. HOWEVER, when she flattened my boob out like a pancake but pulling down on my breast I realized she caused me some grief! Later that evening my "tunnel" was aching so I went to check it and there was a bloody scabby thing coming out of the exit site. I used a swab to pull it out (I could see it wasn't attached to anything) and it has been bothering me ever since. There wasn't any blood, but lots of aggravation in the area. Has anyone had such an experience?

[Cordelia]

Thanks for the mention of this. I never thought it would bother my central line. I think I will hold off doing this untl I have mine taken out in the next few months. I have a fitsula going in next month and i'm guessing my central line will have to stay in for 2-3 mos for the fistutal to mature.

I don't want to take any chances, so I will get a hold of my transplant co-ordinator and hold off on that for a few months yet.

[WishIKnew]

Hope everything turned out ok for you with this.  I had a mamo last Friday, but I'm on PD so there was no interference with the catheter.  Thinking of you!  Sometimes the most routine things become complicated...

[Cordelia]

I'm not the mammogram now. I may end up just having a regular breast exam in the future instead. Suits me just fine. My central line is staying in until likely after my transplant. I am having no fitsula afterall and that makes me a happy camper

Basically speaking, I've never had problems with my central line. The doctor felt there was no need for a fistula if I'm having a transplant done in the next 9-12 mos.
I'm thankful and breathing a huge sigh of relief!!

[Riki]

I had my central line in the last time I had a mammogram done.  I don't remember if they did anything to move it out of the way, but I didn't have any issues with it.  I don't think it would have gone anywhere near the tunnel, judging from where the scar from the line is.  Perhaps it just depends on where your line is on your chest.