A biopsy is the removal of breast tissue that is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist. It's important to remember that just because your radiologist requested a biopsy, it does not mean you have breast cancer. In fact, most biopsy results are not cancer.
The Breast Center utilizes several methods of needle biopsy, and your radiologist will determine the best method for you. Because the area of the breast is numbed with local anesthesia, biopsies are relatively painless, and you get to go home shortly after the procedure.
Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy
If an abnormal breast mass is detected on the breast ultrasound or a breast lump is found, a radiologist can use ultrasound guidance to pinpoint the mass and take samples for further study. There are two methods of ultrasound-guided breast biopsy. In one method, called a core needle biopsy, samples are collected by way of a spring-loaded biopsy needle. Another method, a vacuum-assisted biopsy, applies vacuum pressure to pull tissue from the breast through the needle into the sampling chamber.
MRI-Guided Vacuum-Assisted Breast Biopsy
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnetic fields and advanced computer technology to produce specific images of the breast. Using MRI guidance to pinpoint the mass, vacuum pressure is used to pull tissue from the breast through the needle into the sample chamber.
Stereotactic Biopsy
Much like an MRI or ultrasound-guided biopsy, a stereotactic breast biopsy relies on special imaging to place the biopsy needle at precisely the site of the abnormality. In this case, a specialized mammography machine, similar to the mammography unit used for diagnostic screening, is used. X-rays are taken from different angles to help guide the radiologist's instruments to the site. Using a vacuum-assisted device, samples are obtained and sent to a pathologist for diagnosis.
Surgical/Incisional Breast Biopsy
Most breast biopsies are done with special needles using image guidance as described above. Sometimes a needle biopsy is not possible due to the location of the suspicious area in the breast or other factors. In these cases the biopsy is done by a surgeon in an operating room. Before surgery, a seed-localization procedure is usually done if the abnormal area in the breast was first detected on imaging tests (such as mammogram) and cannot be felt. The surgeon will use local anesthetic to numb the area that will be biopsied and you will also get IV sedation (rather than general anesthesia). These procedures are done in an outpatient setting and you will go home the same day.