Needle Localization

This procedure is performed on areas found on mammography or ultrasound, which are difficult to feel. The breast is cleansed with an antiseptic. Using a mammography or ultrasound for guidance, a fine wire is inserted with tip of wire resting in the identified area. Following the procedure, a mammogram confirms the correct placement of the wire. The localization wire is taped to the breast and the patient is transferred to surgery. The surgeon uses the wire as a guide to find the area for biopsy. The tissue removed is sent to pathology. Activities may be limited for several days until the area heals.

Preparation:
Please call your physician for the necessary preparation instructions. Please report to the information desk in the atrium 15 minutes prior to the exam time.

Stereotactic Biopsy

This procedure is performed on a suspicious area, identified on prior mammography. The patient lies face down on a biopsy table with the breast hanging through an opening in the table. The breast is first cleaned with an antiseptic. It is compressed and then numbed with a local anesthetic. Stereotactic mammography imaging equipment locates the lesion for the physician from two different angles using a computer. The physician then uses the computer coordinates to guide the sampling biopsy needle device to the correct area of the breast. The biopsy specimen is then sent to pathology. If a hematoma forms after the biopsy, inform your physician. This occurs from rupture of a small blood vessel during the procedure, and causes a tender lump and often bruising.

Preparation:
The day BEFORE the examination May have light breakfast- only decaf coffee- light on liquids. Take medications as prescribed, except aspirin which should be stopped 2 days prior to the exam. Wear comfortable clothes and a supportive bra. Report to admitting 15 minutes prior to the exam time.

Core Needle Biopsy

If a lump has been found through examination, mammography or ultrasound, a core needle biopsy may be used to diagnose the abnormality. The needle has a large center that removes a core of tissue from the lump. Core biopsies may be used with ultrasound to guide the physician to the suspicious area. The skin where the needle will be inserted is cleaned with an antiseptic to destroy bacteria. The area is then numbed by injecting an anesthetic agent through a small needle. The physician locates the lump and stabilizes it to prevent movement as the core needle is inserted. Since the needle is large, you will feel pressure as the physician inserts the instrument. The needle removes a core of tissue which is sent to the pathology lab for evaluation. The pathologist informs your physician of the results of the biopsy, whether it is benign or malignant. Ask your physician when and how you can expect to receive the biopsy results. The procedure takes about 15 minutes. When completed, a small bandage will be placed on your breast and you can return to your normal activities. You may shower the same day as your biopsy. If a hematoma forms after the biopsy, inform your physician. This occurs from rupture of a small blood vessel during the procedure, and causes a tender lump and often bruising.

Preparation:
May have light breakfast- only decaf coffee- light on liquids. Take medications as prescribed, except aspirin which should be stopped 2 days prior to the exam. Wear comfortable clothes and a supportive bra. Report to admitting 15 minutes prior to the exam time.