Exams: Comprehensive Women's Imaging

Stereoguided Breast Biopsy

What is Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?
A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue and looking at it under a microscope for abnormalities. Stereotactic Breast Biopsy involves finding the precise location of the abnormal area using conventional mammography from three angles. Once located, the biopsy is taken of that area. Unlike surgical biopsy, which requires an incision, removal of a larger piece of tissue and a brief hospital stay, Stereotactic Breast Biopsy can be done in the outpatient imaging office.

When is Stereotactic Breast Biopsy used?
A Stereotactic Breast Biopsy is most helpful when mammography shows a mass, a cluster of microcalcifications (tiny calcium deposits that are closely grouped together) or an area of abnormal tissue change, but no lump can be felt on careful breast examination.

What are some benefits of Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?
Unlike the more invasive surgical procedure, Stereotactic Breast Biopsy offers the following benefits:

• No external scarring of the breast
• No internal scar to interfere with future mammogram readings
• No exposure to general anesthesia
• No prolonged recovery period

How should I prepare for the exam?
There is no special preparation required for the procedure. You may eat, drink, and engage in all of your usual activities before your appointment. Because you will be removing your clothing from the waist up, it is a good idea to wear a two-piece outfit.

What will I experience during the Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?
Your technologist will escort you to the procedure room and have you lie on the table. You will be on your abdomen with your breast placed through an opening in the table. The tabletop is raised and the radiologist and technologist perform the procedure from beneath you. Your breast will be compressed, like during a mammogram. Several films will be taken in order to locate the area in question. Once done, the radiologist will review the images and use a computer to locate the exact area to be sampled. The skin of the breast is cleaned and a small amount of local anesthetic is injected into the skin and deeper tissues of the breast with a small needle. You will feel a tiny pinch similar to a pin prick.

When the area is numb, a biopsy needle is inserted and additional images are taken to ensure its proper placement. Then, several samples of tissue are extracted for analysis. A tiny clip may or may not be placed inside the breast to mark the area biopsied. The entire process lasts approximately one hour, but the procedure itself takes only a few minutes. Afterward, a gauze pad will be applied to prevent bleeding.

What will I experience after the Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?
Ask when you may remove your dressing. Afterward, you may shower or bathe using plain soap and water to wash the area. It is unlikely that you will experience any problems following the biopsy. However, should you notice prolonged bleeding, unusual discharge or drainage, a foul odor, or any firmness, redness, or warmth at the site, please inform your primary care physician. You should also notify him or her if you develop a fever of 100 degrees or more.