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Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
Lumps or abnormalities are often detected by a physical examination or by the use of medical imaging modalities. Sometimes it is not possible to tell whether an area of concern is benign or cancerous and a biopsy is indicated. A Stereotactic breast mammography machine is one way to provide a less invasive method for biopsy. It is similar to a regular mammography machine, but is used to view and help guide a needle into the area of concern to obtain samples of this area.
How to Prepare for a Stereotactic Biopsy
- Wear loose-fitting comfortable clothing. You will need to remove all clothing and jewelry around the area of examination. You will be asked to wear a gown.
- Before a needle biopsy, DRA Imaging's surgical nurse will contact you and review the procedure with you as well as verify your medical history to include any medications you are currently taking. If you are on any blood thinners such as coumadin or heparin, ibuprofen, or aspirin therapy you will be asked to stop taking the regimen five days prior to the exam.
- Inform your doctor about any recent illness or other medical condition.
- You may want to have a friend accompany you and drive you home afterward.
How is a Stereotactic Biopsy Performed?
- A specially trained Radiologist or Physician Assistant will perform this image-guided minimally invasive procedure.
- You will be seated next to the stereotactic mammography unit.
- Your breast will be compressed and held in position throughout the procedure, to ensure you will not be able to move the breast.
- A local anesthetic will be injected into the local area of the breast to numb it.
- A small nick is made in the skin where the biopsy needle will be inserted.
- The Radiologist or PA will insert the needle into the mass or calcification guided by the mammography system and computer generated coordinates. Mammography images will be obtained to confirm the placement of the needle prior to samples being removed.
- Once the area has been confirmed, multiple tissue samples will be obtained and sent to the laboratory for review and analysis.
- A small marker will be placed at the site for future reference.
- When the biopsy is completed, pressure is applied to stop any bleeding and the opening in the skin is covered with a dressing.
Pregnancy Policy:
All patients of childbearing age (10 - 54) will be required to sign that there is No Chance of Pregnancy prior to an imaging exam being performed (Exception: - Ultrasound). If there is a chance of pregnancy, STAT blood work will be ordered prior to the procedure being performed to establish that there is no chance of pregnancy.
In the event, you are pregnant and the exam is deemed necessary by your physician, you will be shielded and monitored with a radiation badge.