Stereotactic Breast Biopsy

What is a stereotactic breast biopsy?

When mammography has discovered an area of question, change or concern, a stereotactic biopsy provides a means to obtain tissue without open surgical intervention. Using a "stereo x-ray" system to determine position and depth of a mammographic lesion, the radiologist is able to obtain a specimen through a cutting needle for microscopic analysis. This procedure eliminates trauma associated with open biopsy, a procedures which would need to be performed in an operating room.

When the results of the biopsy are found and confirmed to be benign, follow-up continues with routine mammography. If the results indicate the mass to be malignant or contain suspicious tissue, a more aggressive therapy is then recommended. The stereotactic procedure usually takes no more than an hour from arrival to departure. It leaves an imperceptible scar at the needle biopsy sight.

How should I prepare for this procedure?

There is no need to fast prior to this exam. You may eat a light breakfast but do not drink coffee unless it is decaffeinated. If taking aspirin, discontinue this practice three full days prior to the exam date. Regular medications should be continued as prescribed. If taking blood-thinning medications such as Coumadin, notify Desert Radiologists prior to the appointment. On the day of the procedure, a comfortable two-piece garment should be worn. Finally, avoid using talcum powder or deodorant on the day of your biopsy.

What should I expect during this procedure?

During the exam, you will lie face down on a specially designed table with the breast placed through an opening in the tabletop. The table will be raised and the radiologist will perform the procedure from beneath. Because the device uses a rapid digital technique, this procedure will be much quicker than those that use only film. The breast will be compressed and held in position throughout the procedure. Several sets of x-rays will be taken. The skin of the breast will be anesthetized with a small hypodermic needle. A biopsy needle will be placed in the breast to extract pieces of tissue. There may be a sense of pressure. An occasional pinching sensation may also occur as the specimens are obtained. The needle used to obtain the biopsy can remove the entire lesion if it is small. In this event, a small metallic clip may be placed in the breast to mark the location. Several tissue samples might be removed. These samples will be sent to the pathology laboratory for diagnosis. A mammogram will be obtained after the biopsy if a clip was implanted. This is to show its position in relation to the biopsy cavity.

What should I expect after this procedure?

After the exam, there may be some bleeding where the needle was placed. The area will be bandaged and a cold pack will be administered. If you experience any pain, a non-aspirin pain reliever, like Tylenol, is recommended. Two tablets every 4 to 6 hours should help alleviate any discomfort. There may also be some bruising around the site of the biopsy, which should disappear within 5 to 7 days. If any excessive swelling, redness, drainage or irregular heat sensation is experienced, please contact Desert Radiologists. Your test results are usually available within 2-3 working days. Please contact your primary physician to discuss the results. If the result is a benign biopsy, you will need a repeat mammogram in about 6 months.