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Why would I need a breast biopsy?
Although a recent mammogram may show an abnormality in your breast,
only a biopsy can determine if that abnormality is cancerous or
benign (noncancerous). Four out of five women will find they have
a benign condition. Usually, it means tissue is removed for examination.
This is the only way to determine if an abnormal tissue is cancerous
or benign.
What is Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?
Stereotactic biopsy is a new diagnostic tool used when a mammogram
detects an abnormal condition in a woman's breast. It is a non-surgical
way to obtain the tissue sample needed to make a conclusive diagnosis
about that abnormality. This procedure is state-of-the-art and provides
early, accurate results. Other types of surgical biopsies continue
to be used in specific situations. Your physician will discuss these
if they would be a better alternative for you.
What are the advantages of a Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?
Its ability to find tiny abnormalities increases the chances for
finding cancer early and identifying its specific type. This helps
your physician to respond with prompt, aggressive treatment for better
outcomes. This procedure is less invasive, less painful, less scarring
compared to other methods. It takes far less time to perform this
nonsurgical technique and you'll be back home the same day. The cost
of this procedure is also far less expensive than other types of
biopsies.
Stereotactic biopsies are highly accurate. Thousands of these procedures
have been performed at leading medical centers throughout this country
since it was cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in
1995. It is three times more accurate than other methods in diagnosing
some conditions associated with early stage breast cancer, the time
when it is most treatable.
How does the procedure work?
This kind of biopsy is similar to a mammogram in some ways. Instead
of standing up, you lie face down and your breast is compressed just
as it is during a mammogram. You will be on a special examination
table where your breast is positioned through a round opening in
the table. Then you and the table are elevated so a physician and
assisting technician can work from below.
A computer helps the physician to position a needle-like biopsy probe
correctly. Before proceeding, the physician numbs that area of your
breast with a local anesthetic. Once the anesthetic takes effect,
the biopsy probe is inserted, requiring a tiny nick in your skin
that is less than one-eighth of an inch.
How long does the procedure take?
The entire biopsy takes about an hour. After a surgical dressing
is applied, you'll be able to go home with some simple follow-up
instructions.
When will I know the results?
Biopsy results take just a few days and your physician will discuss
them with you.
Who can I call to learn more about stereotactic breast biopsy?
If you have a question about breast biopsy or other Breast Health
Services at Sarasota Memorial, please call (941) 917-2636.
