The stereotactic biopsy uses special x-ray or mammogram images to guide the biopsy. Stereotactic-guided breast biopsy is performed when the finding is only or best visualized on the mammogram. You will either be positioned in the seated or side lying position depending on the location of the area to be biopsied. The breast will be held in compression for the biopsy. X-ray images will be taken to determine the 3-dimensional location of the area of concern within the breast. This type of biopsy is a minimally invasive way to obtain a sample of breast tissue for further diagnosis.
WHAT TO EXPECT
There is no special preparation required before having a stereotactic breast biopsy. You will usually be sitting upright with your breast compressed during the procedure. Several X-ray images will be taken in order to locate the area in question. Once this is done, the radiologist will review the images and use a computer to target the exact area to be sampled. The radiologist or technologist will clean your skin and then the radiologist numbs the area with lidocaine (similar to what dentists use). You will feel a tiny stick on the skin and you may feel a burning sensation as the medication is administered.
Once the area is numb, the radiologist will insert a biopsy needle and take additional X-rays to ensure proper placement. Several samples of the biopsied tissue will be taken for analysis. A tiny marker will be placed inside the breast to mark where the biopsy was taken. You will not be able to feel the marker, however, it will show on future mammograms. Afterward, pressure will be applied to the site for several minutes. A mammogram will be performed after the procedure to record the marker placement. Prior to departure you will be given an ice pack to place over the biopsied area and you will be wrapped in an ACE bandage to help minimize swelling and tenderness. The entire appointment takes about one hour and the procedure itself takes approximately twenty minutes.
What are the risks of stereotactic breast biopsy?
- Temporary bruising or hematoma (blood collection at the site of biopsy) may occur.
- Bleeding or oozing at the biopsy site is possible.
- Infection is rare but is a risk with any invasive procedure.
- If implants are present, damage to the implant is possible.
How should I prepare for the procedure?
- Wear a comfortable two-piece outfit.
- Eat a light meal prior to the procedure.
- Do not wear deodorant, lotion, powder or perfume under your arms or on your breasts the day of the procedure.
What should I expect after the procedure?
- Leave the ACE bandage and underlying gauze on until the next morning. At that time, remove the bandage, leaving the steri-strip (tape over the puncture site) in place.
- Do not bathe or shower for 24 hours after the breast biopsy. Please do not go swimming or into a hot tub for 3 days after the biopsy.
- After 24 hours you may bathe/shower with the steri-strips (tape) in place. The steri-strips need to stay on until they fall off. If they have not fallen off after 10 days, you can remove them in the bath or shower. Once the steri-strips come off, they do not need to be replaced.
- Pain is normal for several days after a biopsy. You can take over the counter pain relievers containing Tylenol or Ibuprofen (IE: Advil, Aleve) and follow the instructions on the packaging. If breast pain is not controlled with over-the-counter medications, consultation with your primary care provider (PCP) will be necessary to discuss possible prescription pain relievers.
- Avoid strenuous activities or lifting heavy objects for 24 hours. If your job does not require heavy lifting, you may return to work immediately following the biopsy.
How will I learn the results?
A pathologist will examine the tissue specimens and will report the findings to your health care
provider, usually within 3 to 5 working days.
You will receive the biopsy results via a phone call from a Radiology Ltd. breast patient navigator or your healthcare provider, depending on your provider’s preference. Results will also be posted on your Radiology Ltd. patient portal.
For questions or changes to your appointment please call (520) 901-6792.