Based upon the results of your patient's last mammogram, you physician may recommend that an area of your patient's breast be biopsied in order to obtain further information.

Stereotactic Guided Breast Biopsy was developed as an alternative to surgical breast biopsy. It assists in diagnosing the cause of a lesion, lump, or calcifications found on a mammogram.

Stereotactic breast biopsy is performed on an out-patient basis and is about one third the cost of surgery. The procedure does not require the need for hospitalization or general anesthesia. Unlike an open surgical biopsy, there is no significant scarring.

This procedure involves obtaining small samples of tissue from a specific area or areas within the breast. The procedure uses a hollow needle precisely guided to the correct location via breast imaging (x-ray) and computer coordinates.

Procedure

At all times during the procedure the patient is informed about what is occurring and what is needed to assist in the exam. During the procedure, the patient lies face down (on your stomach) on a specially designed table. The breast is placed through an opening in the table and compressed, much like a mammogram.

The radiologist and technologist will work from underneath the table, which is raised during the procedure. Several images will be taken to ensure exact positioning. The images are sent to a computerized digital system to create a "stereo image". The stereo images allow the radiologist to pinpoint the exact location of the area of concern.

The breast surface is cleaned with a sterile solution and local anesthetic is administered to the skin. Once the initial sting or burning sensation has passed, only pressure is felt during the exam.

Next, a small nick is made in the skin where the biopsy needle is placed. Images are once again obtained to confirm position and the needle is advanced while samples of the area are taken.

After the biopsy needle is withdrawn, pressure is held on the needle insertion site for about 10 minutes and then covered with a simple dressing. An ice pack is given to help with any discomfort.

The entire procedure is generally painless and takes about 1 hour to complete. Unlike open surgical biopsy, there is no significant scarring within the breast.

Post Exam

The biopsy results are generally available from the pathology laboratory within 72 hours of the procedure.

Once the procedure is completed, heavy lifting, reaching, pulling or tugging should be avoided for 48 hours. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 48hours.