This procedure is used to biopsy abnormalities identified on physical exam, mammography or ultrasound. Ultrasound may be used as an aid to guide the position of the needle. The skin where the needle will be inserted is cleaned with an antiseptic to destroy bacteria. A very small needle, attached to a syringe, is inserted into the area of concern and suction is applied to remove cells. The cells are sent for pathology studies. The procedure will leave no scar and you can return to your normal activities the day of the aspiration.

Preparation:
No preparation necessary.

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 procedure is performed in the breast center.

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:
No preparation necessary.

This procedure is performed on areas found on mammography or ultrasound, which are difficult to feel. The breast is cleansed with an antiseptic. Using 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:
No preparation necessary.

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:
No preparation necessary.

A surgeon removes a portion of the abnormal area in a surgical suite. Local or general anesthesia will be used. A short time is required in the recovery room after the surgery. Stitches close the incision. The specimen is sent to the pathologist. Activities will be restricted until stitches are removed or dissolved. Patients should contact their surgeon for specific preparation instructions.

Preparation:
No preparation necessary.