Ultrasound Needle Core Breast Biopsy

Based on mammogram and breast ultrasound results, a referring physician recommends that an area of the patient's breast be biopsied in order to obtain further information. This can be accomplished through a technique known as ultrasound guided needle core biopsy.

During an ultrasound guided core biopsy, small samples of tissue are removed from the breast using a hollow needle, which is precisely guided to the correct location via direct visualization of the suspicious breast tissue with ultrasound.

This advanced technique is ideally suited to InView Medical Imaging and Breast Center 's outpatient setting, where a pleasant atmosphere allows the patient to relax and feel comfortable. Ultrasound guided needle core biopsy avoids the trauma of more invasive, costly and cosmetically unappealing surgical biopsy. Ultrasound guided needle core biopsy virtually eliminates extensive surgical scar tissue formation which can mask lesions in future mammograms.

Prior to the exam, you may eat a light breakfast, but do not drink coffee unless it is decaffeinated. If you take aspirin or blood thinners, please discontinue using these three days in advance of the procedure. Avoid using talcum powder or deodorant on the day of your biopsy.

During the exam, you will lie on an examination table with your breast exposed. Our board certified radiologist and certified technologist will perform the procedure from tableside. Your breast will be examined with ultrasound. The skin of the breast will be anesthetized with a small hypodermic needle. A small skin nick will be made and a hollow sampling needle will be placed in the breast to extract pieces of tissue. You may sense a slight pressure, but you should not experience any pain. During the procedure, you will be informed about what is occurring and what you will need to do to assist in the exam. The exam lasts about approximately 30 minutes.

Definitive diagnosis is expected with ultrasound needle core biopsy. Studies have shown the procedure to have extremely high sensitivity and specificity equivalent to open surgical biopsy.