If you can drive yourself home, it sounds like they'll use a local anesthetic. That's good.

If you don't get any responses here, check out this "what to expect" fact sheet from NYU Medical Center.

I had one just a few months ago. It wasn't bad, although I insisted they put me out for the procedure. They did some sort of a "twilight" drug through an IV. I could see and hear them; I just didn't really care. They did numb my neck and I'm sure I'd been fine without the tranquilizer.

All I wanted was one valium; they did they whole IV/twilight thing.

I don't remember how long it took. It wasn't hours and hours. I had an ultra sound the week before and the biopsy path could be seen on the screen.

My neck was sore; but not unbearable. I took an Excedrin when I got home. The drugs made me loopy, and no, you should not drive home alone.

I have had 2 needle biopsies without any problems. All they did was numb the area and stick about 3-6 needles to take samples. I had no bruising or bleeding. BUT, tell them to put a hospital top on instead of your clothing, because as careful as they are, they still will get some blood on the clothing. That is what they recommended last time. To be on the safe side, arrange for someone to drive you, That is what my Dr. prefers. I had very little pain, but did take some Tyanol (sp) l as they suggested.

Thanks for the advice. "Speaking with others who have undergone the procedure helps a lot. You are very thoughtful.

alisande- Thanks for linking the info from NYU Med Ctr. It is very helpful and clear. - just the right amount of detail.

Caroline- It is reassuring that you feel you could have gotten by without IV tranquilizer. I am bringing the ultra scan and they will use it to locate the nodules also.

marie- I am glad that you shared about what to wear. I was wondering. I plan to wear a modest scoop neck shirt or blouse that buttons, but I will ask for a hospital top (hope it is not paper).

Was the bandage more than a bandaid or two? I accepted a substitute teaching job for Thursday in the middle school where I used to work before retirement. I should be able to handle a little discomfort but do not want to appear dramatic with a big bandage. Were you able to go about your normal business the next day?

Thanks

I had a gauze and tape bandage on my neck. Tell the kids you're steping out with a vampire! They'll be impressed.

Seriously - I am a wimp. I did not want to go anywhere the next couple of days. But again, I do get physically stressed easily.

In hindsight, the procedure was not painful, just scary. There was far more pressing/pressure than real discomfort.

I had my clothes on, but they draped my entire body and put a wrap on my head. Just my face and neck were exposed. I was on a gurney and in a regular operating room. There were four people working on me.

The biopsy went well today. Thanks to the very thoughtful responses to my questions I was prepared and not nervous. I really appreciate the help. - Linda

riverhouse, glad your biopsy went well. I just seen this post but had one also about five years ago and had no problems, left the doctors office and went about my shopping! I don't think they put anything on it afterwards & I drove by myself. Probably time for another one.