An ultrasound-guided biopsy may be recommended if an area of concern is found on your mammogram or ultrasound exam, and is best approached using ultrasound guidance. Solis Women's Health radiologists use this technique to take small samples of tissue from an area in your breast that needs further examination. The sample is then sent to pathology for evaluation in the same manner as for a stereotactic biopsy.
Below are answers to the most common questions specific to this procedure:
What is ultrasound-guided breast biopsy?
Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is a highly accurate way to evaluate suspicious masses within the breast that are visible on ultrasound, whether or not they can be felt on breast self-examination or clinical examination. The procedure prevents the need to surgically remove tissue and also eliminates the radiation exposure that comes from using X-rays to locate a mass. After placing an ultrasound probe over the site of the breast lump and using local anesthesia, the radiologist guides a biopsy needle directly into the mass.
How should I prepare for the procedure?
Although ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is minimally invasive, there is a risk of bleeding whenever the skin is penetrated. For this reason, if you are taking aspirin or a blood thinner, your physician may advise you to stop three days before the procedure. You may want to have a relative or friend come with you to lend support and also to drive you home afterward.
How is the procedure performed?
You will be placed either on your back or turned slightly to the side while the ultrasound probe is used to locate the lesion. A local anesthetic is injected to be sure that you will feel no discomfort during the procedure. A very small nick is made in the skin at the site where the biopsy needle is to be inserted. A Solis radiologist will constantly monitor the lesion site with the ultrasound probe and guide a hollow biopsy needle directly into the mass to obtain the specimen.
What will I experience during the procedure?
You will be awake during your biopsy and should have little or no discomfort. Generally, the biopsy is completed in less than an hour. It is not necessary to close the tiny skin incision with sutures or stitches; a small dressing will do. Most patients are able to resume their usual activities later the same day.
Who interprets the results and how do I get them?
A Solis radiologist will examine the tissue specimens after they are processed. A definite diagnosis will be available within a few days.
