Biopsy of the Breast
We realize a biopsy may be an emotionally distressful experience. However, patient comfort, in addition to an accurate diagnosis, is our priority.
Learn More About Biopsy of the Breast
If a nodule (or lump) is found during your exam, we may recommend additional imaging, such as an ultrasound or mammogram, to help determine whether it’s non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous.
If the imaging results are unclear, a biopsy might be needed to get more information. This involves removing a small sample of tissue for testing.
Our experienced radiologists and staff are here to make the biopsy process as quick and comfortable as possible. It’s typically done using a small needle and a local anesthetic to numb the area. Most women feel only minimal discomfort, and no stitches are needed. You’ll likely be able to return to your normal activities the same day.
It’s important to know that more than 80% of breast nodules are benign, meaning they are not cancer.
We realize a biopsy may be an emotionally distressful experience. However, patient comfort, in addition to an accurate diagnosis, is our priority. Our radiologists and staff are trained to make this procedure as comfortable and quick as possible. A needle biopsy can be performed with local anesthetic and minimal discomfort. With this procedure, no stitches are required and most women can resume normal daily activity immediately. Keep in mind that more than 80% of all breast abnormalities are benign or non-cancerous.
Please do not take aspirin or Ibuprofen for 5-7 days prior to biopsy. Prior to your appointment, please let the staff know if you are taking any blood thinners. Please wear a supportive bra to help maintain the post-biopsy dressing. It is helpful to wear a two-piece outfit, preferably one that buttons up the front. No change of eating habits is required.
Biopsy samples are sent to a pathologist, who will analyze and provide your physician and Radiology Associates with a diagnosis. You will be notified of results within several days of your biopsy appointment.
A biopsy is the only way to confirm whether a breast abnormality is benign (non-cancerous) or cancerous. A needle biopsy is a safe, minimally invasive procedure that removes a small sample of breast tissue, which is then examined by a pathologist for diagnosis.
There are different ways to perform a needle biopsy, depending on how the abnormality appears:
Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy: Most common method, used when the area is clearly seen on ultrasound.
Stereotactic Biopsy: Uses mammogram images to guide the needle, especially helpful for tiny calcium deposits (calcifications).
MR-Guided Biopsy: Uses MRI to guide the needle when the abnormality is best seen on MRI.
These procedures are performed in our outpatient interventional department with your comfort in mind—often in settings that are typically only available in hospitals. Our team of registered nurses coordinates with your physician to make scheduling easy and ensures you receive pre- and post-procedure instructions.
After your biopsy, you’ll receive recovery guidelines before leaving. We recommend having someone with you who can drive you home.
For more information, visit www.radiologyinfo.org.
A nurse will provide you with instructions prior to leaving our facility.
After your biopsy, do not participate in any strenuous activity or take aspirin for 48-hours. You will be given an ice pack to place inside of your bra and will need to wear it for at least 4 hours. You are also asked to sleep in your bra for the next two nights. You may take Tylenol if needed for any discomfort. The outer dressing may be removed after 24 hours. The steristrip may be removed five days after the biopsy. You may bathe carefully with the steristrips in place, being careful not to loosen them. You may have some discomfort or bruising at the skin incision site. Watch for excessive bleeding, pain, or fever. Should any of these occur, contact our office at 850-878-6104.