But, despite these statistics, most biopsies are still performed using the traditional open surgery technique. The more women know about breast biopsy options, the more likely they will be to make the best choices for themselves. This new procedure differs from the traditional biopsy in terms of time involved for the patients, as well as the amounts of breast tissue that have to be removed. In surgical biopsies, up to a golf-ball sized amount of tissue may have to be removed, which can cause permanent disfigurement. They now have a viable alternative to surgery.
Some special training is required to use the device, which is provided to surgeons and radiologists.
The lesion is viewed from several different angles, and the location is programmed into a computer so that the probe can be inserted correctly. Response from providers has been quite favorable. The results are comparable to those from a surgical biopsy and are proving just as accurate. By Heather Pitre Please e-mail us your questions and comments . Please look at our disclaimer before using this site.