Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
Patient Guide: What to Expect
When You Arrive
After you check in, we will give you a hospital gown and escort
you to the biopsy suite when you've changed. A board-certified radiologist
who specializes in breast imaging performs the biopsy. Two radiological
technologists, who also specialize in breast imaging, assist the
radiologist. The radiologist has already studied your mammogram
before you arrive, so he or she is familiar with the abnormality
and its location.
The Procedure
The first part of the biopsy procedure is similar to the mammogram
procedure: we compress your breast and take an x-ray to confirm
that the correct area of your breast is centered in the window of
the compression paddle. When the position is perfect, we take two
more x-rays; together, these images and the computer help us determine
the precise positioning of the biopsy needle. Using this information,
the radiologist positions the device that holds the needle. Next,
we clean your breast with antiseptic and the radiologist uses a
tiny needle to inject a local anesthetic. This numbs the area to
be biopsied.
When the area is numb, the radiologist makes a very small incision
(usually less than a quarter-inch) for the biopsy needle. We take
two additional x-rays to confirm the position and then we acquire
the tissue samples we need, called cores. We often x-ray those samples
during the procedure to be certain they contain a representative
sample of the area of the abnormality. The entire procedure is completed
in approximately 45 minutes.
After the procedure we apply pressure and ice to the site of the
biopsy incision and the radiologist discusses with you what you
should do when you get home and what you can expect. We will also
give you written instructions and remind you that you should not
drive home.
Contacting Us
To make an appointment or for more information, please call us at
401-845-1336 or 401-845-1983.
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