Abstract:
A compression assembly is operable to localize a patient&#39;s breast. The compression assembly comprises a frame and a plurality of slats. The frame defines a plurality of tracks. The frame is configured to engage a breast localization fixture. The slats are coupled with the frame. Portions of the slats are disposed in the tracks. One or more of the slats are movable relative to the frame to provide adjustable access to a patient&#39;s breast engaged by the compression assembly. The slats may be slid and/or rotated relative to the frame. In some versions, the tracks and slats are provided in two sets. Each set lies along a respective plane, with the two planes being parallel to each other. The slats of one set may ratchetingly engage the slats of the other set to restrain slat movement. In some versions, the slats are removable from the frame for increased access.

Description:
PRIORITY 
       [0001]    This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/395,796, entitled “MRI Biopsy Device,” filed Mar. 31, 2006, published as U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0232953 on Oct. 4, 2007, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention relates, in general, to a method of imaging assisted tissue sampling and, more particularly, to an improved method for positioning a biopsy probe with respect to a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) breast coil for acquiring subcutaneous biopsies and for removing lesions. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Recently, core biopsy devices have been combined with imaging technology to better target a lesion in breast tissue. One such commercially available product is marketed under the trademark name MAMMOTOME™, by Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. An embodiment of such a device is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,526,822 issued to Burbank, et al., on Jun. 18, 1996, and is herein incorporated by reference to the extent that it does not limit the invention. Its handle receives mechanical and electrical power as well as vacuum assist from a remotely positioned control module that is spaced away from the high magnetic field of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine. 
         [0004]    As seen from that reference, the instrument is a type of image-guided, percutaneous coring, breast biopsy instrument. It is vacuum-assisted, and some of the steps for retrieving the tissue samples have been automated. The physician uses this device to “actively” (using the vacuum) capture the tissue prior to severing it from the body. This allows the sampling of tissue of varying hardness. In addition, a side opening aperture is used, avoiding having to thrust into a lesion, which may tend to push the mass away, cause a track metastasis, or cause a hematoma that, with residual contrast agent circulating therein, may mimic enhancement in a suspicious lesion. The side aperture may be rotated about a longitudinal axis of the probe, thereby allowing multiple tissue samples without having to otherwise reposition the probe. These features allow for substantial sampling of large lesions and complete removal of small ones. 
         [0005]    Traditionally, prior to biopsy, the clinician immobilizes the breast in a compression system that places light compression on the breast to capture and hold the breast in a static position for the remainder of the procedure. Such compression systems generally consist of two or more compression members that can be adjusted to compress and immobilize the patient&#39;s breast. Generally, access to the breast is achieved via fixed slots, grids, or apertures in the compression members. The number of such apertures, and the corresponding number of access points available to the clinician, is limited in order to provide enough surface area to sufficiently restrain the breast during the procedure. Generally, the greater the number of access points present in a compression member, the less effective the compression member will be in securing the breast during the procedure. 
         [0006]    Providing fixed openings through which a biopsy device may be inserted may limit the number of locations through which a clinician may gain access once the compression members are in place. Should a clinician desire access to a location blocked by the compression members, it is generally necessary to reposition the compression members to align the apertures or the like with the desired target area. Rather than reposition the compression members, clinicians may try to work within the limited access areas, thereby potentially decreasing the accuracy or efficacy of the biopsy procedure. Additionally, fixed openings may provide less support than needed in open areas and closed areas may create too high a pressure on narrow areas of the breast. 
         [0007]    It would therefore be advantageous to provide a compression member for use in biopsy procedures that provides a wide range of access points for a clinician without having to readjust the compression system. It would be further advantageous to provide a compression member that increases the number of available access points to the breast while retaining the ability to effectively hold the breast in place for the duration of the procedure. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    A compression assembly is disclosed that includes a frame that may be coupled to a localization fixture and the like for use during MRI medical procedures and/or biopsy procedures. The frame may include a plurality of compression members located therein that may be coupled to the frame with one or a plurality of frangible or disengagable members. Breaking or removing the disengagable members may release the compression members, thereby giving a physician access to a patient&#39;s breast at a desirable location. The compression members, after release, may be reattached to the frame. 
         [0009]    A compression assembly is disclosed that includes a frame that may be coupled to a localization fixture and the like for use during MRI medical procedures and/or biopsy procedures. The frame may include a plurality of adjustable compression members located therein that may be slidably coupled to the frame. Adjusting or moving the compression members may open up access points, thereby giving a physician access to a patient&#39;s breast at a desirable location. 
         [0010]    These and other objects and advantages of the present invention shall be made apparent from the accompanying drawings and the description thereof. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         [0011]    The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention, and, together with the general description of the invention given above, and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the present invention. 
           [0012]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) biopsy system shown with a patient positioned thereon; 
           [0013]      FIG. 2  is a partial perspective view of the biopsy system of  FIG. 1  illustrating one version of a compression system and patient support; 
           [0014]      FIG. 3  is a left side longitudinal cross-section view taken along the central axis of the compression system and patient support shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0015]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of one version of a compression member having multiple compression plates shown prior to use; 
           [0016]      FIG. 5  is a top cross-sectional view, taken along line  5 - 5 , of two compression plates, shown in  FIG. 4 , and the connection therebetween; 
           [0017]      FIG. 6A  is a perspective view of an alternate version of a compression member shown with two compression plates removed; 
           [0018]      FIG. 6B  is a perspective view of an alternate version of a compression member shown with slidable compression plates therein; 
           [0019]      FIG. 7  is a top cross-sectional view, taken along line  7 - 7 , of two compression plates, shown in  FIG. 6A , and the connection therebetween; 
           [0020]      FIG. 8A  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a compression member having horizontal compression bars, shown prior to use; 
           [0021]      FIG. 8B  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a compression member having vertical compression bars, shown prior to use; 
           [0022]      FIG. 9  is a top cross-section view, taken along line  9 - 9 , of the interconnection between the compression member and the compression bar of  FIG. 8A , shown prior to removal; 
           [0023]      FIG. 10  is a top cross-section view, taken along line  9 - 9 , of the interconnection between the compression member and the compression bar of  FIG. 8A , shown during removal; 
           [0024]      FIG. 11  is a top cross-section view, taken along line  9 - 9 , of an alternate interconnection between the compression member and the compression bar of  FIG. 8A , shown prior to removal; 
           [0025]      FIG. 12  is a top cross-section view, taken along  9 - 9 , of an alternate interconnection between the compression member and the compression bar of  FIG. 8A , shown during removal; 
           [0026]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view of an alternate version of a compression assembly having movable members positioned within a frame; 
           [0027]      FIG. 14  is a left side cross-section view, taken along line  14 - 14 , of the compression assembly of  FIG. 13 ; 
           [0028]      FIG. 15  is a top cross-section view, taken along line  15 - 15 , of the compression member of  FIG. 13  showing the interconnection between the movable members and the frame; 
           [0029]      FIG. 16  is a perspective view of an alternate version of a compression assembly having movable members positioned within a frame; 
           [0030]      FIG. 17  is a front cross-section view, taken along line  17 - 17 , of the compression assembly of  FIG. 16 , shown depicting the relationship between the movable members and the frame; 
           [0031]      FIG. 18  is a top cross-section view, taken along line  18 - 18 , of the compression assembly of  FIG. 16 ; 
           [0032]      FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an alternate version of a compression assembly having telescoping members positioned within a frame; 
           [0033]      FIG. 20  is a perspective view of an alternate version of a compression assembly having telescoping members positioned within a frame; 
           [0034]      FIG. 21  is a perspective view of an alternate version of a compression assembly having movable members positioned within a frame; 
           [0035]      FIG. 22  is a perspective view of an alternate version of a compression assembly having compression slats configured as a plurality of hexagons positioned within a frame; 
           [0036]      FIG. 23  is a perspective view of an alternate version of a compression assembly having flexible compression bars positioned within a frame; 
           [0037]      FIG. 24  is a perspective view of an alternate version of a compression assembly having removable members positioned within a frame; 
           [0038]      FIG. 25  is a more detailed perspective view of the removable member of  FIG. 24  shown with a top insertion member and a bottom insertion member; 
           [0039]      FIG. 26  is a more detailed perspective view of the top insertion member of  FIG. 25 ; 
           [0040]      FIG. 27  is a more detailed perspective view of the bottom insertion member of  FIG. 25 ; and 
           [0041]      FIG. 28  is a more detailed view of the insertion member of  FIG. 25  positioned within a frame. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0042]    Turning to the Drawings, wherein like numerals denote like components throughout the several views, in  FIG. 1 , a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) biopsy system  10 , hereinafter biopsy system  10 , includes an MRI machine  12 , a patient support  28 , a localization fixture  16 , and a biopsy device  14 . 
         [0043]    Referring to  FIGS. 1-3 , the biopsy system  10  includes a control module (not shown) that typically is placed outside of a shielded room containing an MRI machine  12 , or at least spaced away, to mitigate detrimental interaction with its strong magnetic field and/or sensitive radio frequency (RF) signal detection antennas. The control module controls and powers the biopsy device  14 , which is compatible for use in close proximity to the MRI machine  12 . An example of a biopsy device  14  is the afore-mentioned MAMMOTOME™ instrument. The biopsy device  14  is accurately positioned by a localization fixture  16  that is attached to a patient support  28 , which supports a patient throughout the duration of the procedure. A guidance assembly  20  may be attached to the localization fixture  16  to increase imaging and therapeutic flexibility and accuracy in conjunction with selective use of the biopsy device  14  at particular parts of the procedure as is known in the art. The guidance assembly  20  may also be mounted or secured separately from the localization fixture  16 . In one version, it may be advantageous to mount the guidance assembly  20  independent of the localization fixture  16  where, for example, if a biopsy device  14  having significant mass is utilized it may be advantageous to decouple the targeting and biopsy functions of the biopsy system  10  to allow a clinician to support the biopsy device  14 . The localization fixture  16  includes a compression assembly  22  to hold the patient&#39;s breast in place and to provide access to the breast during the procedure, versions of which will be discussed in more detail herein. 
         [0044]    Referring to  FIGS. 4-5 , one version of a compression assembly  22  is shown having a frame  30  with a plurality of compression members or compression plates  32  located therein. The frame  30  of the compression assembly  22  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  34  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  34  may be configured such that the compression assembly  22  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0045]    The frame  30  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of removable compression plates  32  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the compression plates  32  are rectangular in shape and are detachably coupled to adjacent compression plates and/or the frame  30 . Referring to  FIG. 4 , the compression assembly  22  is shown prior to the removal of one or a plurality of compression plates  32 . Prior to use, the frame  30  may contain, for example, twenty compression plates  32  of equal size and shape creating a substantially contiguous surface area within the frame  30 . The compression plates  32  and the frame  30  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  30  and/or the compression plates  32  may be configured in any desirable shape or configuration including, but not limited to, circular, oval or three dimensional lofted, curved shapes facilitating access to a patient&#39;s breast during a biopsy procedure while still providing sufficient surface area to retain the breast securely therein. 
         [0046]    Referring to  FIG. 5 , the compression plates  32  may be detachably coupled to adjacent compression plates  32  and/or the frame  30  with one or a plurality of disengagable members  36  connected therebetween. The disengagable members  36  may include a polymeric tab, a reattachable clip, a snap-fit between a compression member and another compression member and/or the frame, a frangible coupler, or any other suitable connection mechanism. Although any suitable number is contemplated, each compression plate  32  may have a total of four disengagable members  36  placed one on each side thereof for attachment to an adjacent compression plate  32  and/or frame  30 . The disengagable members  36  may be integrally molded with the compression plates  32 , attached thereto, for example, with an adhesive or the like, or removable and reattachable. The disengagable members  36  may project outwardly such that a clinician may easily access and remove the disengagable members  36  and/or compression plates  32 . Removal may be achieved with the clinician&#39;s hands or, for example, with a tool adapted to break, remove, unsnap, or release the disengagable members  36 . 
         [0047]    Still referring to  FIGS. 4-5 , in use, the compression system  22  may be placed against the patient&#39;s breast with all of the compression plates  32  intact. Once the compression system  22  has been positioned and secured, the clinician may identify the region on the plate through which access to the breast would be most desirable. After identifying this area, the clinician may remove one or a plurality of compression plates  32  in this area by breaking or otherwise removing the disengagable members  36 . Removing, for example, the four disengagable members  36  surrounding a compression plate  32  may release the compression plate  32  for removal by the clinician. Once the compression plate  32  has been removed, the clinician may access the breast with the biopsy device  14  via the newly created access point. In one version, the compression plate  32  may be reattached to the compression assembly  22  after the biopsy sample is taken. 
         [0048]    Providing a compression assembly  22  in accordance with the illustrated version may provide a clinician with nearly unlimited access to a patient&#39;s breast within the frame  30 . Once a targeted area has been identified, a clinician may avoid having to readjust major components in order to have direct access to a desirable tissue region. A clinician may only need to remove those compression plates  32  from the compression assembly  22  that correspond to the targeted tissue location before inserting the biopsy device  14  therethrough. Additionally, the compression assembly  22  may more securely retain the patient&#39;s breast by allowing a clinician to create gaps or apertures in only those areas through which access is needed. Similarly, high levels of pressure on narrow regions of breast tissue may be avoided by provided a large surface area in areas through which access to the breast is not desired. Removing only necessary portions of the available surface area may increase the breast retention capabilities of the compression assembly  22  while simultaneously providing greater access to the patient&#39;s breast. Increasing a clinician&#39;s access to breast tissue while simultaneously securing the breast with an increased surface area may improve the accuracy and ease of biopsy procedures. It will be appreciated that versions of the compression assemblies and/or compression members disclosed herein may be operably configured for single use or for multiple use. 
         [0049]    Referring to  FIGS. 6A-7 , an alternate version of a compression assembly  122  is shown with two compression members or compression plates  132  removed from the frame  130 . The frame  130  of the compression assembly  122  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  134  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  134  may be configured such that the compression assembly  122  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0050]    The frame  130  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of removable compression plates  132  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the compression plates  132  are rectangular in shape and are detachably coupled to adjacent compression plates and/or the frame  130 . Referring to  FIG. 6A , the compression assembly  122  is shown after the removal of two compression plates  132 . Prior to use, the frame  130  may contain, for example, twenty compression plates  132  of equal size and shape creating a substantially contiguous surface area within the frame  130 . During use, as illustrated, one or a plurality of compression plates  132  may be removed to facilitate access to the patient&#39;s breast. The compression plates  132  and the frame  130  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  130  and/or the compression plates  132  may be configured in any desirable shape or configuration facilitating access to a patient&#39;s breast during a biopsy procedure. 
         [0051]    Referring to  FIG. 7 , the compression plates  132  may be detachably coupled to adjacent compression plates  132  and/or the frame  130  with a disengagable member  136  connected or otherwise creating a connection therebetween. The disengagable members  136  may include, for example, a tab  140  that may be easily grasped and removed manually by a clinician. Although any suitable number is contemplated, each compression plate  132  may have a total of four disengagable members  136  placed one on each side thereof for attachment to an adjacent compression plate  132  and/or frame  130 . The disengagable members  136  may be integrally molded with the compression plates  132  or may be attached thereto, for example, with an adhesive or the like. The disengagable members  136  may project outwardly such that a clinician may easily access and remove the disengagable members  136  and/or compression plates  132 . Removal may be achieved with the clinician&#39;s hands or, for example, with a tool adapted to break, unsnap, disengage, and/or remove the disengagable members  136 . 
         [0052]    Referring to  FIG. 6B , an alternate version of a compression assembly  160  is shown having a frame  170  with a plurality of compression members or compression plates  162  located therein. The frame  170  of the compression assembly  160  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  164  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  164  may be configured such that the compression assembly  160  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0053]    The frame  170  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of slidable or movable compression plates  162  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the compression plates  162  are rectangular in shape and are coupled to adjacent compression plates and/or the frame  170  with a slidable tongue and groove configuration. Referring to  FIG. 6B , the compression assembly  160  is shown after a compression plate  162  has been moved within the frame  170  by sliding the compression plate  162  within a vertical plane along a tongue and groove created by adjacent compression plates  162 . Each compression plate  162  and/or the frame  170  may include tongues and/or grooves such that compression plates  162  may be moved freely in a vertical and/or horizontal direction within the frame  170 . 
         [0054]    Prior to use, the frame  170  may contain, for example, nineteen compression plates  162  of equal size and shape creating a substantially contiguous surface area within the frame  170  minus an opening the size of a single compression plate. Using the slidable tongue and groove connection between adjacent compression plates  162  and/or the frame  170 , the clinician may adjust, slide, or otherwise move the compression plates about one another until the gap created by the absent compression plate is positioned as an access point inline with a targeted tissue location. Providing a movable access point may allow a clinician to access a wide variety of tissue locations while preserving sufficient surface area to retain the breast. It will be appreciated that the compression assembly  160  may include any suitable number of compression members or compression plates  162  and may have a movable gap, aperture, or access point of any desirable size and configuration. It is further contemplated, for example, that two or more compression plates may be removed such that multiple access points may be created simultaneously. 
         [0055]    The compression plates  162  and the frame  170  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  170  and/or the compression plates  162  may be configured in any desirable shape or configuration facilitating access to a patient&#39;s breast during a biopsy procedure. The movement of the compression plates  162  may be facilitated by, for example, a tongue and groove relationship between adjacent compression plates  162  and/or the frame  170 , or by any other suitable adjusting means. 
         [0056]    Referring to  FIGS. 8A-12 , an alternate version of a compression assembly  222  is shown having a frame  230  with a plurality of compression members or compression bars  232  positioned therein. The frame  230  of the compression assembly  222  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  234  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  234  may be configured such that the compression assembly  222  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0057]    The frame  230  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of removable compression bars  232  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the compression bars  232  are rectangular in shape and are detachably coupled to the frame  230  at both ends. Referring to  FIGS. 8A-8B , the compression assembly  222  is shown prior to the removal of a compression bar  232 . In one version, the frame  230  may contain, for example, five compression bars  232  of equal size and shape spaced apart such that access to the breast is available without removing one or a plurality of the compression bars  232 . Should a clinician desire greater access, one or a plurality of the compression bars  232  may be removed to grant such access. Providing established access points, in combination with the ability to create additional access points, may allow a clinician to perform a procedure quickly without modifying the compression assembly  222  unless necessary. The compression bars  232  and the frame  230  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  230  and/or the compression bars  232  may be configured in any desirable shape or configuration such as, for example, horizontally, vertically, diagonally, ergonomically, curved, and/or in any suitable shape that models or fits the patient&#39;s anatomy. It is further contemplated that any suitable number of compression bars  232  may be provided. Referring to  FIG. 8A , one version of a compression assembly  222  is shown having horizontal compression bars  232 . Referring to  FIG. 8B , one version of a compression assembly  222  is shown having vertical compression bars  232 . 
         [0058]    Referring to  FIGS. 9-10 , the compression bars  232  may be detachably coupled to the frame  230  with a disengagable member  236  connected or otherwise providing a connection therebetween. The disengagable members  236  may be polymeric tabs or any other suitable coupling or attachment mechanism. Although any suitable number is contemplated, each compression bar  232  may have a single disengagable member  236  at each end thereof. The disengagable members  236  may be integrally molded with the compression bars  232  or may be attached thereto, for example, with an adhesive, a snap fit, or the like. The disengagable members  236  may project outwardly such that a clinician may easily access and remove the disengagable members  236  and/or the compression bars  232 . Removal may be achieved with the clinician&#39;s hands or, for example, with a tool adapted to break, disengage, remove, unsnap, or otherwise uncouple the disengagable members  236 . It is further contemplated that the compression bars  232  may be reattachable to the frame  230 . 
         [0059]    Referring to  FIGS. 11-12 , an alternate version of a disengagable member  246  is shown prior to the removal of a compression bar  232  ( FIG. 11 ) and during removal of a compression bar  232  ( FIG. 12 ). In the illustrated version, the disengagable member  246  may be permanently coupled to the frame  230  and is detachable only from the compression bar  232  by breaking the disengagable member  246 . A clinician, for example, by breaking the disengagable member  246 , may remove the compression bar  232  without having to dispose of a loose disengagable member  246 . In one version, the connection of the disengagable member  246  to the frame  230  may be thicker, or otherwise more secure, than the connection of the disengagable member  246  to the compression bar  232 . When the disengagable member  246  is twisted, bent, toggled, or the like by the clinician, the connection between the disengagable member  246  and the compression bar  232  may be such that it is broken, thereby releasing the compression bar  232  without creating a loose disengagable member  246 . 
         [0060]    It will be appreciated that the disengagable member  246  is disclosed by way of example where, for example, the disengagable member  246  may be more securely attached to the compression bar than to the frame  230  such that the disengagable member  246  remains attached to the compression bar  232  when the seal, tab, clip, connection, or other suitable connection mechanism is broken or removed. It will be further appreciated that versions of the frangible or disengagable members disclosed herein may be applied to any suitable version of the compression assembly. It is further contemplated that disengagable members disclosed herein may be reattached to the compression assemblies such that, if desired, the clinician may reattach a compression bar, plate, slat, movable member, or the like to the compression assembly if desired. 
         [0061]    Referring to  FIGS. 8A-12 , in use, the compression assembly  222  may be placed against the patient&#39;s breast with all of the compression bars  232  intact. Once the compression system  222  has been positioned and secured, the clinician may identify the region within the frame  230  through which access to the breast would be most desirable. If this area is already open via the established access ports, the clinician may proceed with the biopsy procedure without removing any of the components of the compression assembly  222 . If the desired access area is blocked by a compression bar  232 , the clinician may remove one or a plurality of the compression bars  232  in the target area by breaking or removing the disengagable members  236 . Removing, for example, the two disengagable members  236  at the ends of a compression bar  232  may release the compression bar  232  for removal by the clinician. Once the compression bar  232  has been removed, the clinician may access the breast with the biopsy device  14  via the newly created access point. 
         [0062]    Referring to  FIGS. 13-15 , an alternate version of a compression assembly  322  is shown having a frame  330  with a plurality of compression members or movable members  332  positioned therein. The frame  330  of the compression assembly  322  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  334  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  334  may be configured such that the compression assembly  322  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0063]    The frame  330  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of compression members or movable members  332  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the movable members  332  are rectangular slats slidably or adjustably coupled to the frame  330  at both ends in a tongue and groove. Referring to  FIGS. 13-15 , the compression assembly  322  is shown prior to the adjustment of one or a plurality of movable members  332 . In one version, the frame  330  may contain, for example, seven movable members  332  of equal size and shape staggered in an alternating configuration ( FIG. 14 ) where, for example, four movable members  332  are adjustable or slidable about a plane A-A and three movable members are adjustable or slidable about a plane B-B. Referring to  FIG. 15 , the four movable members  332  adjustable about plane A-A may ride, in a tongue and groove fashion, within a first track  340  parallel to plane A-A. The three movable members  332  adjustable about plane B-B may ride, in a tongue and groove fashion, within a second track  342  parallel to plane B-B. The movable members  332  may be freely adjustable about the planes A-A and B-B or may be held in place once positioned, for example, with a friction fit between adjacent surfaces  346  of the movable members  332  or a ratchet system. 
         [0064]    When initially provided, the compression assembly  322  may lack visible apertures or holes through which a clinician may access the patient&#39;s breast. After identifying a target area to which access is desired, one or a plurality of the movable members  332  may be adjusted, moved, and/or removed to provide a suitable opening through which a biopsy device  14  may be inserted. By adjusting the movable members  332  about planes A-A and B-B, the clinician may access a variety of regions within the bounds of the frame  330 . The movable members  332  may be adjusted by any suitable mechanism including, for example, by manual adjustment or with a tool adapted for that purpose. The movable members  332  and the frame  330  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  330  and/or the movable members  332  may be configured in any desirable shape, thickness, or configuration such as, for example, with diagonally, horizontally, and/or vertically positioned movable members  332 . It is further contemplated that any suitable number of movable members  332  may be provided that may be staggered about any suitable number of planes. 
         [0065]    Providing a compression assembly  322  with movable members  332  may allow a clinician to access the breast through a wide range of areas within the frame  330 . A clinician may access a desired area while retaining sufficient support for the breast by moving only those movable members  332  necessary to create the access point. 
         [0066]    Referring to  FIGS. 16-18 , an alternate version of a compression assembly  422  is shown having a frame  430  with a plurality of compression members or movable members  432  positioned therein. The frame  430  of the compression assembly  422  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  434  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  434  may be configured such that the compression assembly  422  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0067]    The frame  430  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of movable members  432  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the movable members  432  are fan-shaped slats slidably or adjustably coupled, at one end, to the frame  430  with a hinge or the like. Referring to  FIGS. 16-18 , the compression assembly  422  is shown prior to the adjustment of one or a plurality of movable members  432 . In one version, the frame  430  may contain, for example, seven movable members  332  configured in the shape of a fan and stacked upon one another ( FIG. 18 ) where, for example, each movable member  432  is slidable or adjustable about a separate plane running parallel to the front face of the frame  430 . The movable members  432  may be freely adjustable about the plurality of planes and may be held in place once positioned, for example, with a friction fit between adjacent surfaces of the movable members  432  or by any other suitable means. 
         [0068]    When initially provided, the compression assembly  422  may not have any visible apertures or holes through which a clinician may access the patient&#39;s breast. After identifying a target area to which access is desired, one or a plurality of the movable members  432 , may be adjusted or moved such as, for example, by rotating the movable member  432  about an axis or hinge located in one corner of the frame  430 . By rotating the movable members  432 , the clinician may access a wide variety of locations within the bounds of the frame  430 . The movable members  432  may be adjusted by any suitable means including, for example, by manual adjustment or with a tool adapted for such a purpose. The movable members  432  and the frame  430  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  430  and/or the movable members  432  may be configured in any desirable shape, thickness, or configuration. It is further contemplated that any suitable number of movable members  432  may be provided. Generally, it will be appreciated that the compression assemblies disclosed herein may be used laterally, medially, or otherwise. It is further contemplated that versions herein may be combined such as, for example, by providing movable members that may also be released with a disengagable member or the like. 
         [0069]    Referring to  FIGS. 19-20 , versions of a compression assembly  522  are shown having a frame  530  with a plurality of telescoping compression members or compression bars  532  located therein. The frame  530  of the compression assembly  522  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  534  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  534  may be configured such that the compression assembly  522  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0070]    The frame  530  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of telescoping compression members or compression bars  532  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the telescoping compression bars  532  are cylindrical in shape, are vertically positioned, and include a first telescoping member  540 , a second telescoping member  542 , and a third telescoping member  544 . The frame  530  may contain, for example, seven telescoping compression bars  532  of equal size and shape spaced apart such that the breast is adequately supported during an MRI procedure. The telescoping compression bars  532  and the frame  530  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  530  and/or the telescoping compression bars  532  may be configured in any desirable shape or configuration facilitating access to a patient&#39;s breast during a biopsy procedure while still providing sufficient surface area to retain the breast securely therein. 
         [0071]    Still referring to  FIGS. 19-20 , the first, second, and third telescoping members  540 ,  542 ,  544  may telescope upon, within, and/or about one another such that a desired access region is exposed. The first, second, and third telescoping members  540  may be vertically movable, for example, about a guidewire  546  connected at each end thereof to the frame  530 . The telescoping members  540 ,  542 ,  544  may have a central bore through which the guidewire  546  passes and about which the telescoping members  540 ,  542 ,  544  may be adjusted. The telescoping members  540 ,  542 ,  544  may be operably configured such that a friction fit, or any other suitable connection, maintains the telescoping members  540 ,  542 ,  544  in a static position until moved. Once moved or adjusted, the friction fit may maintain the position of the telescoping members  540 ,  542 ,  544  in the desired position. In one version, the telescoping members  540 ,  542 ,  544  have compatible diameters such that, for example, all three telescoping members  540 ,  542 ,  544  may be stacked upon one another, at any point along the guidewire  546 , to provide a wide range of access to the patient&#39;s breast. It is further contemplated that the telescoping members  540 ,  542 ,  544  be tapered or the like to reduce the likelihood of pinching the patient&#39;s skin. 
         [0072]    Still referring to  FIGS. 19-20 , the telescoping members  540 ,  542 ,  544  may be provided in any suitable configuration that allows for access to a patient&#39;s breast. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 19 , the second telescoping member  542  may have a relatively wide diameter configured to accept the first and third telescoping members  540 ,  544 , therein. Referring to  FIG. 20 , an alternate version is shown wherein the first and second telescoping members  540 ,  544  are provided with a relatively wide diameter configured to accept the second telescoping member  542  therein. It will be appreciated that the telescoping compression bars  532  may have any suitable configuration and/or any suitable telescoping or adjustable capabilities to provide a clinician with desirable access to a patient&#39;s breast. For example, any suitable number of telescoping members is contemplated in both a vertical or horizontal configuration. Furthermore, if a guidewire  546  is used, the tension of the guidewire  546  may be varied to allow the telescoping members  542  or knuckles to conform to the shape of the patient&#39;s anatomy. It is further contemplated that the telescoping compression bars  532  may be self-guiding in the absence of a guidewire  546 . 
         [0073]    Referring to  FIG. 21 , one version of a compression assembly  722  is shown having a frame  730  with a plurality of compression members or compression bars  732  located therein. The frame  730  of the compression assembly  722  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  734  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  734  may be configured such that the compression assembly  722  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0074]    The frame  730  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of adjustable compression bars  732  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the adjustable compression bars  732  are cylindrical in shape, are vertically positioned, and are operably configured such that they may be moved horizontally and/or rotated within the frame  730 . Horizontal motion may open advantageous access points to the patient&#39;s breast and rotation may minimize the likelihood of pinching the patient&#39;s skin. The frame  730  may contain, for example, three adjustable compression bars  732  of equal size and shape spaced apart such that the breast is adequately supported during an MRI procedure. The adjustable compression bars  732  and the frame  730  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  730  and/or the adjustable compression bars  732  may be configured in any desirable shape or configuration facilitating access to a patient&#39;s breast during a biopsy procedure while still providing sufficient surface area to retain the breast securely therein. 
         [0075]    Still referring to  FIG. 21 , the adjustable compression bars  732  may be rotatably and/or movably coupled to the frame  730  with a first adjustable retention member  736  at one end and a second adjustable retention member  738  at the opposite end. The adjustable retention members  736 ,  738  may be operably configured to ride within a first track  740  and a second track  742 , respectively. In one version, the adjustable retention members are operably configured to be adjusted should a physician desire access to a region of the breast temporarily blocked. The compression bars  732  may be rotated to minimize movement of the breast and to maximize the biopsy accuracy. 
         [0076]    In a further version, the adjustable compression bars  732  may be rotated where, for example, the compression bar  732  may have different geometries based upon its orientation with respect to the central axis. For example, the compression bar  732  may have a slat-like shape with one face having a large surface area and a second face having a low surface area. When a clinician does not need access to the breast near the compression bar  732 , the compression bar  732  may be rotated such that the face having a high surface area is pushed against the breast in order to provide a secure hold. Should a clinician desire to take a biopsy sample in the area of the compression bar  732 , the compression bar  732  may be rotated or the like to turn the face having a low surface area against the breast to give the clinician greater access. It will be appreciated that the compression bar  732  may have any suitable configuration and/or any suitable rotational or movement capabilities to provide a clinician with desirable access to a patient&#39;s breast. 
         [0077]    Referring to  FIG. 22 , one version of a compression assembly  822  is shown having a frame  830  with a plurality of compression members or compression slats  832  located therein. The frame  830  of the compression assembly  822  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  834  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  834  may be configured such that the compression assembly  822  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0078]    The frame  830  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of removable compression slats  832  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the compression slats  832  are rectangular in shape and are detachably coupled to adjacent compression plates and/or the frame  830 . Still referring to  FIG. 22 , the compression assembly  822  is shown prior to the removal of one or a plurality of compression slats  832 . Prior to use, the frame  830  may contain, for example, a plurality of compression slats  832  of equal size and shape organized into a plurality of hexagons, however, it will be appreciated that any organization is contemplated. The compression slats  832  and the frame  830  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  830  and/or the compression slats  832  may be configured in any desirable shape or configuration, such as a configuration designed to conform to a patient&#39;s anatomy, facilitating access to a patient&#39;s breast during a biopsy procedure while still providing sufficient surface area to retain the breast securely therein. 
         [0079]    Still referring to  FIG. 22 , the compression slats  832  may be detachably coupled to adjacent compression slats  832  and/or the frame  830  with a disengagable member  836  connected therebetween. The disengagable members  836  may be a polymeric tab, a reattachable clip, a snap-fit between a compression member and another compression member and/or the frame, a frangible coupler, or any other suitable connection mechanism. Although any suitable number is contemplated, each compression slat  832  may have a disengagable member  36  at each end thereof for attachment to an adjacent compression slat  832  and/or frame  830 . The disengagable members  836  may be integrally molded with the compression slats  832 , attached thereto, for example, with an adhesive or the like, or removable and reattachable. In one version, the disengagable members  836  may project outwardly such that a clinician may easily access and remove the disengagable members  836  and/or compression slats  832 . Removal may be achieved with the clinician&#39;s hands or, for example, with a tool adapted to break, remove, unsnap, or release the disengagable members  836 . 
         [0080]    Still referring to  FIG. 22 , in use, the compression system  822  may be placed against the patient&#39;s breast with all of the compression slats  832  intact. Once the compression system  822  has been positioned and secured, the clinician may identify the region on the plate through which access to the breast would be most desirable. After identifying this area, the clinician may remove one or a plurality of compression slats  832  in this area by breaking or otherwise removing the disengagable members  836 . Removing, for example, the two disengagable members  836  at both ends of a compression slat  832  may release the compression slat  832  for removal by the clinician. Once the compression slat  832  has been removed, the clinician may access the breast with the biopsy device  14  via the newly created access point. In one version, the compression slat  832  may be reattached to the compression assembly  822  after the biopsy sample is taken. 
         [0081]    Referring to  FIG. 23 , one version of a compression assembly  922  is shown having a frame  930  with a plurality of compression members or compression slats  932  located therein. The frame  930  of the compression assembly  922  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  934  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  934  may be configured such that the compression assembly  922  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0082]    The frame  930  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of adjustable and/or bendable compression slats  932  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the compression slats  932  are generally rectangular in shape and include a flexible member  936  at each end thereof. The frame  930  may contain, for example, five compression slats  932  of equal size and shape distributed within the frame  930 . The compression slats  932  and the frame  930  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  930  and/or the compression slats  932  may be configured in any desirable shape or configuration facilitating access to a patient&#39;s breast during a biopsy procedure while still providing sufficient surface area to retain the breast securely therein. 
         [0083]    Still referring to  FIG. 23 , the compression slats  932  may be coupled to the frame  930  permanently or detachably. The flexible members  936 , in one version, are configured from an elastomeric material that allows the compression slats to be easily bent or adjusted to provide a wide range of access to the breast. The flexible members  936  may be integral with the compression slats  932  and may include, for example, folded or coiled memory-retention and/or polymeric material that may provide sufficient flexibility to the compression slats  932  such that they may be moved out of the way of a desired target area. The flexible members  936  may bias or otherwise return the compression slats  932  to their resting state when no longer displaced. In a further version, it is contemplated that the flexible members  936  may be permanently deformed when manipulated by the clinician. Although any suitable number is contemplated, each compression slat  932  may have a flexible member  936  at each end thereof adjacent the frame  930 . 
         [0084]    Still referring to  FIG. 23 , in use, the compression system  922  may be placed against the patient&#39;s breast with all of the compression slats  932  in their resting position, as depicted. Once the compression system  922  has been positioned and secured, the clinician may identify the region through which access to the breast would be most desirable. After identifying this area, the clinician may displace one or a plurality of compression slats  932  to provide the desired access. Once the compression slat  932  has been displaced, the clinician may access the breast with the biopsy device  14  via the newly created access point. In one version, the compression slat  932  may be configured to retain its newly acquired shape and/or position until it is otherwise moved. 
         [0085]    Referring to  FIGS. 24-28 , one version of a compression assembly  1022  is shown having a frame  1030  with a plurality of compression members or compression slats  1032  located therein. The frame  1030  of the compression assembly  1022  may be coupled with the localization fixture  16  via one or a plurality of connection members  1034  for use during biopsy procedures. The connection members  1034  may be configured such that the compression assembly  1022  may be adjustable and/or detachable from the localization fixture  16  or other support. 
         [0086]    The frame  1030  may, for example, be rectangular in shape and have a plurality of adjustable, fixed, and/or removable compression slats  1032  positioned therein. In the illustrated version, the compression slats  1032  are generally longitudinal members and include a retainer  1036  at each end thereof. The frame  1030  may contain, for example, five compression slats  1032  of equal size and shape distributed within the frame  1030 . In a further version, the frame  1030  may contain one or a plurality of fixed compression slats  1032  in addition to one or a plurality of adjustable and/or removable compression slats  1032 . The compression slats  1032  and the frame  1030  may be configured from any material, such as a polycarbonate stabilized for gamma irradiation, suitable for use during an MRI procedure or other medical procedure. It will be appreciated that the frame  1030  and/or the compression slats  1032  may be configured in any desirable shape or configuration, including a vertical or horizontal configuration, facilitating access to a patient&#39;s breast during a biopsy procedure while still providing sufficient surface area to retain the breast securely therein. 
         [0087]    Still referring to  FIGS. 24-28 , the compression slats  1032  may be coupled to the frame  1030  permanently or detachably. The retainers  1036 , in one version, are configured as hooks retained within tracks  1038  to allow the compression slats to be removed, adjusted, and/or moved to provide a wide range of access to the breast. In one version, the retainer  1036  located at one end of the compression slat  1032  and engaged with the frame  1030  may have rotational, but little or no lateral movement capability, and the retainer  1036  at the opposite end may be free to move about a track  1038  or the like such that access points to a patient&#39;s breast may be exposed while providing structural support to the frame  1030 . It will be appreciated that the retainers may take on any suitable shape or configuration that allows for the movement and/or detachment of the compression slats  1032 . The retainers  1036  may be inserted into the tracks  1038  and may, in one version, have a range of motion therein. In further versions, the compression slats  1032  may be flexible, permanent, and/or removable. In the illustrated version, the retainers  1036  may be recessed away from the patient&#39;s breast to minimize the potential to pinch the skin. 
         [0088]    Still referring to  FIGS. 24-28 , in use, the compression system  1022  may be placed against the patient&#39;s breast with all of the compression slats  1032  in place, as depicted. Once the compression system  1022  has been positioned and secured, the clinician may identify the region through which access to the breast would be most desirable. After identifying this area, the clinician may displace and/or remove one or a plurality of compression slats  1032  to provide the desired access. Once the compression slat  1032  has been displaced or removed, the clinician may access the breast with the biopsy device  14  via the newly created access point. 
         [0089]    While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Additionally, each element described in relation to the invention may be alternatively described as a means for performing that element&#39;s function.