Breast Cancer Biopsy: Ultrasound-guided Core Biopsy

If your physician has recommended a breast biopsy, you should know that there is more than one option for biopsies. When a biopsy is recommended to test for breast cancer, you may be able to choose a minimally invasive alternative to surgery known as image-guided needle biopsy. This is a technique that does not require surgery.

How Is This Type Of Breast Biopsy Performed?

The patient lies on her back on the exam table. An ultrasound is then performed to localize the lesion in question. First, using ultrasound guidance, the skin, and tissue around the lesion is anesthetized with a local anesthetic. This allows the biopsy to be done without pain or discomfort.

After giving a local anesthetic, a small incision or opening is then made in the skin. A sterile biopsy needle is placed into or beneath the abnormal breast tissue. Ultrasound confirms the location of the needle in relation to the lesion.

Tissue samples are taken through the needle. It is common to take about three to five tissue samples. There are a number of biopsy instruments that can be utilized to obtain the tissue sample. They include core biopsy which uses a needle to obtain a piece of tissue about 1/16 inch across and 1/2 inch long, and a vacuum-assisted needle biopsy device (VAD), which uses vacuum suction to obtain a tissue sample.

This tissue is then examined under the microscope to look for cancer cells. This part of the biopsy takes approximately 15 minutes. Upon completion, sterile strips and a small adhesive bandage are applied to the skin. The entire procedure takes approximately 30 minutes. Results are usually available in three to five working days.

What Are The Benefits Of Minimally-Invasive Biopsy?

Minimally invasive biopsy offers:

Minimal scarring instead of a large incision.
Reduced pain and risk of infection after the procedure.
Potentially lower hospital costs.
Immediate return to work.
Shorter recovery time and immediate resumption of daily activities.

Be aware that minimally-invasive, core breast biopsies are the standard method for tissue sampling. Open surgical biopsy should be used only in instances when a minimally invasive, core biopsy cannot be performed.

How Safe Is Minimally Invasive Biopsy?

Minimally invasive breast biopsy is as safe as "open" surgery when performed by breast specialists trained in this field. While it is very likely that your breast-care specialist will suggest this procedure if it is appropriate, you should always feel comfortable discussing options when it comes to your health. Good physicians welcome your participation in your own health and to the extent it helps you be more relaxed about any proposed procedures, information can be good health practice.