Stereotactic Breast Biopsy

Why Stereotatic Breast Biopsy?  Stereotactic breast biopsy is an alternative to open or surgical biopsy. Two x-ray images of breast tissue are taken at different angles. A computer uses the images to locate the abnormality and calculate precise coordinates. Then the computer guides the physician in placing a needle at the target. The procedure is completed on an outpatient basis with a minimum of discomfort and recovery time.

Stereotactic Breast Biopsy  This revolutionary procedure involves the use of digital mammography technology in order to isolate and identify breast abnormalities. Using mammographic guidance, a tiny sample of abnormal breast tissue is retrieved (biopsied) for analysis. This advanced procedure is much less invasive than the surgical approach, called open surgical biopsy, which removes an entire breast lump for microscopic analysis. A stereotactic breast biopsy is most helpful when mammography shows a mass, a cluster of microcalcifications (tiny calcium deposits that are closely grouped together), or an area of abnormal tissue change, but no lump can be felt on careful breast examination.   How is the procedure performed? The first step is to clean the skin and inject a local anesthetic. A small nick is made in the skin and the tip of the biopsy needle is advanced to the calculated site of the lesion. At this point stereo images are again obtained to confirm that the needle tip actually is within the lesion. Samples of tissue are taken and a final set of images are obtained. If they show that the lesion has been mostly or completely removed, a small clip is left at the biopsy site so that it can be easily located if the lesion proves to be cancer. Afterward the skin opening is covered with a dressing; it need not be sutured. You will be told to avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours after returning home, but then will usually be able to resume normal activities.