What is a Breast Biopsy
This is a procedure during which a sample of breast tissue is taken using a specialized fine needle with mammogram or sonogram guided technology. The tissue sample is sent to the lab to determine the nature of the cells in question.
A breast biopsy is only done after there has been a suspicious finding on a diagnostic mammogram. There are two types of biopsies that we perform at CMI:
Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy
This procedure may be recommended if an area of concern is found on a patient’s mammogram or ultrasound exam. Our breast imaging specialists will use ultrasound to guide them while taking small samples of tissue from the area of interest. The sample is then sent to pathology for evaluation. Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is a highly accurate procedure used to locate suspicious tissue within the breast. 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 tissue of interest.
Stereotactic Biopsy
A stereotactic biopsy may be recommended if an identified area of concern is better visualized using mammography. Our breast imaging specialists use this technique to take several small samples of an area in your breast tissue that needs further examination. A stereotactic biopsy is a reliable, minimally invasive method used if areas of concern were detected by a mammogram, ultrasound or MRI.
Stereotactic Biopsy’s are performed in our Annapolis location only.
