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What is a Breast Biopsy?
A Sterotactic breast biopsy is a simple procedure that uses advanced computer imaging technology. A small area of the breast tissue is removed by a specially trained radiologist/physician for further examination. Performed during an office visit, the ease and safety of this procedure is well documented.
Sterotactic breast biopsy provides the same reliability as more complicated surgical biopsy, but provides these significant advantages:
- No anesthesia required
- Less time required
- More cost effective
- Much less complicated
- No special preparation is required for this procedure.
- Any medications you are taking, including aspirin, should be discussed when you schedule an appointment.
- For your comfort, a loose bra and uncomplicated clothing, such as a two piece outfit, should be worn.
- It is best not to wear jewelry as it may interfere with your comfort.
- Eating a light meal prior to the exam is fine as a heavy meal may make you uncomfortable.
- You will need to remove clothing from the waist up and put on a medical gown.
- The technologist will position you as comfortably as possible on your stomach on a special x-ray table, or seat you in a special chair. If you are lying down, your breast will be gently placed through an opening in the table, or if upright, your breast is placed onto the same type of tray used for a mammogram. Once you are in position, your breast will be held in place by light compression. You will be asked to hold your breath as x-ray pictures are taken. These pictures verify the location of the area to be sampled. If the position is not correct, you will be repositioned until the proper location is determined.
- The radiologist/physician will use a computer to read the x-rays to determine the precise area of the breast tissue to be sampled.
- The areas to be tested will be numbed. You may feel a tiny pinch similar to a pin prick. A small incision (no more than ? inch) will be made where the biopsy needle is inserted. You may feel slight pressure during this time. This is rarely painful, but it is important to relax!
- After the biopsy is taken, sterile gauze is applied to the examined area for several minutes to prevent bleeding. Ice may also be applied. Before leaving, a simple pressure bandage and/or sterile strip(s) are placed over the small incision. Instructions will be provided on proper care of the treated area.
- You may ask the physician, when the procedure is finished, when you can expect to receive your results. Typically, results are available in 24-48 hours.
After the Exam
Unless you are told by your physician, you can return to regular activities. Because you may experience some tenderness and soreness, heavy lifting and strenuous activity is not recommended for the remainder of the day.
Your physician will advise you when the bandages may be removed. When the dressing is removed, bathe as normal using plain soap and water to gently clean the area. The breast will heal quickly, leaving almost no sign of the procedure. Scarring of the breast rarely occurs.
Ultrasound Biopsies:
A core biopsy or needle biopsy of the breast can also be preformed with ultrasound guidance. This procedure is very similar to the stereotactic biopsy but involves the use of an ultrasound machine instead of an x-ray machine to guide the biopsy needle into the correct area. In an ultrasound biopsy, the patient lies on her/his back during the procedure instead of on the stomach or standing.
For additional information or to schedule this procedure, contact:
Thompson Cancer Survival Center (TCBC)
1915 White Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37916
Telephone: (865) 541- 1678
The Thompson Cancer Survival Center is accredited to perform this procedure by the American College of Radiology.