I am always amazed by the range of experiences and techniques used during bone marrow biopsies. I'm surprised there is no standard protocol for the procedure, and it appears that every institution has their own way of doing BMB.
I've had two BMB this year. The first was done locally with local anesthetic and conscious sedation with fentanyl and midazolam (Versed). I think I was awake for most of the procedure and the pain was very short and not too intense. It was done by an MD.
My second BMB was done at Moffitt Cancer Center using propofol (Diprivan) and I don't remember a thing about it! It was done by a PA.
In my opinion doing a BMB without the use of sedating and pain medication should be unacceptable to the patient and probably there needs to be a standard protocol established for this procedure. It would be easy to allow the patient to choose his or her options for the procedure.
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Re: Pain-free bone marrow biopsy (BMB)
Mildred -- Thank you for your comments.
My brothers and I have come to the conclusion that a bone marrow biopsy is not something we want to put Mom through. We've now turned toward looking at supportive care and dealing with leg edema and its potential consequences, possibly in a hospice situation. She might have to move from the assisted living retirement facility where she's been for a couple years.
My brothers and I have come to the conclusion that a bone marrow biopsy is not something we want to put Mom through. We've now turned toward looking at supportive care and dealing with leg edema and its potential consequences, possibly in a hospice situation. She might have to move from the assisted living retirement facility where she's been for a couple years.
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JimB
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