Information on Minimally Invasive Breast Biopsy

Minimally invasive procedure known as image-guided needle biopsy is a method which is used to diagnose breast cancer. It is a tissue sampling method that does not require surgery, hence can be performed by a radiologist.

[Read: Types of Breast Biopsy]

How is it performed?

The image-guided needle biopsy is conducted by using ultrasonic and stereotactic guidance. In the stereotactic guidance, the patient is made to lie on her abdomen on a specially designed exam table. There is an opening in the table that allows access to the breast and then the table is raised, and the biopsy is done from below it. The area to be biopsied is centered in the window of a specially designed compression paddle, and Scout films that are mammogram films are taken so the radiologist can examine the breast tissue to be biopsied.

[Read: How is Mammography Done?]

When ultrasonic guidance is used, the patient lies on her back on the exam table, and the ultrasound probe is then used to locate/identify the lump.

For both these types of guidance, a local anesthetic is used, and then the radiologist makes a small opening on the skin. Then he would places a sterile biopsy needle perpendicular to the tissue area which is to be biopsied. Computerised pictures then help to identify the exact needle placement, and the tissue samples are taken through the needle. After completing this biopsy that takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, sterile strips and a small adhesive bandage are put to the skin. This entire process takes approximately an hour and you can get the result within three to five working days.