LAB TEST
Breast biopsy - stereotactic
A breast biopsy is the removal of breast tissue to examine it for signs of breast cancer or other disorders. There are several types of breast biopsies, including stereotactic, ultrasound-guided , MRI-guided and excisional breast biopsy . This article focuses on stereotactic breast biopsy, which uses mammography to help pinpoint the spot in the breast that needs to be removed. This procedure is usually done by a radiologist or surgeon.
How the Test is Performed
You are asked to undress from the waist up. During the biopsy, you are awake. You will most likely be asked to lie facing down on the biopsy table. The breast that is being biopsied hangs through an opening in the table. The table is raised and the doctor performs the biopsy from underneath. In some cases,…
How to Prepare for the Test
The health care provider will ask about your medical history. A breast exam may be done. If you take medicines (including aspirin, supplements, or herbs), ask your doctor whether you need to stop taking these before the biopsy. Tell your doctor if you may be pregnant. Do not use lotion, perfume, powder, or deodorant…
How the Test will Feel
When the numbing medicine is injected, it may sting a bit. During the procedure, you may feel slight discomfort or light pressure. Lying on your stomach for up to 1 hour may be uncomfortable. Using cushions or pillows may help. Some people are given a pill to help relax them before the procedure. After the test, the…
Why the Test is Performed
Stereotactic breast biopsy is used when a small growth or an area of calcifications is seen on a mammogram, but cannot be seen using an ultrasound of the breast . The tissue samples are sent to a pathologist to be examined.
Normal Results
A normal result means there is no sign of cancer. Your provider will let you know when you need a follow-up mammogram or other tests.
What Abnormal Results Mean
If the biopsy shows benign breast tissue without cancer, you will likely not need surgery. Sometimes the biopsy results show abnormal signs that are not cancer. In this case, a surgical biopsy might be recommended to remove the whole abnormal area for examination. Biopsy results may show abnormal conditions such as:…
Risks
There is a slight chance of infection at the injection or surgical cut site. Bruising is common, but excessive bleeding is rare.
References
American College of Radiology website. ACR practice parameter for the performance of stereotactic-guided breast interventional procedures. www.acr.org/-/media/ACR/Files/Practice-Parameters/stereo-breast.pdf . Updated 2020. Accessed April 6, 2023. Cameron J. Breast. In: Cameron J, ed. Current Surgical Therapy . 14th…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 11/03/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.