stereotactic breast biopsy

What is Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?

It is a minimally invasive procedure that obtains a tissue sample from a questionable area in the breast using a special type of needle rather than surgery. A computer precisely determines where the needle travels to obtain the best sample of tissue.

Does Stereotactic Breast Biopsy replace a mammogram?

No. The procedure would be considered only AFTER a mammogram showed a questionable lesion.

What is a lesion?

‘Lesion’ is a medical term for anything on or in the body that isn’t ordinarily there – from a harmless cyst to a cancerous tumor. A lesion on a mammogram is an area that appears different from the surrounding breast tissue.

Why not use this procedure for a lump you can feel?

If the lump is large enough to be felt, it is usually biopsied with a small needle in a doctor’s office. You and your doctor will decide the best system to obtain a tissue sample. Occasionally, stereotactic biopsy can be used for palpable lesions.

What should you expect during this procedure?

Getting a Stereotactic Breast Biopsy is like having a mammogram lying down. You lie face down on a table with a small cutout for your breast. You are given a mammogram, and while your breast is compressed, the radiologist will position the needle at the lesion. That area of your breast is numbed. The actual needle biopsy is very fast – almost like getting your ears pierced for earrings. When the exam is over, the technician will apply a small Band-Aid, and there will be no significant alteration of your breast.

Is the procedure painful?

Not usually. Most women say they don’t feel anything except the pressure of the mammogram itself. A few even fall asleep during the procedure. Since the needle creates a very small puncture in the breast, no stitches are required afterwards.