Stereotactic biopsy is a minimally invasive breast procedure that involves the use of advanced imaging technology to target a specific area of tissue for sampling.

It is a highly accurate method for diagnosing breast abnormalities, including suspicious lumps or calcifications detected during a mammogram.

How Stereotactic Biopsy Works

Stereotactic biopsy is typically performed with the patient lying face down on a special table that is designed to hold the breast in place during the procedure.

The breast is compressed between two plates, similar to a mammogram, and a computerized imaging system is used to create a three-dimensional image of the breast tissue.

Using the image as a guide, the radiologist inserts a needle through a small incision in the skin and guides it to the site of the suspicious tissue.

Once the needle is in place, a small tissue sample is removed using a vacuum-assisted device and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

The entire procedure takes less than an hour to complete and patients are able to return to their normal activities immediately following the biopsy.

Benefits of Stereotactic Biopsy

Stereotactic biopsy offers several benefits over traditional surgical biopsy methods:.

Minimally invasive: Stereotactic biopsy is performed through a tiny incision in the skin, resulting in less scarring and a faster recovery time than traditional surgical biopsies.
Highly accurate: The advanced imaging technology used in stereotactic biopsy allows the radiologist to target the exact site of the tissue abnormality, resulting in more accurate results.
Quick results: The tissue sample obtained during stereotactic biopsy is analyzed immediately, allowing for a faster diagnosis and treatment plan.

Who is a Candidate for Stereotactic Biopsy?

Stereotactic biopsy may be recommended for women who have a breast abnormality detected during a mammogram or other imaging test.

It may also be recommended for women who have a palpable lump or suspicious area of tissue that can be felt during a breast exam.

Your healthcare provider will determine if you are a candidate for stereotactic biopsy based on your individual needs and medical history.

What to Expect During and After Stereotactic Biopsy

Prior to the biopsy, you will be asked to remove any jewelry or clothing that may interfere with the imaging process. You will also be given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the needle will be inserted.

During the biopsy, you may feel some pressure or mild discomfort as the tissue sample is removed.

After the biopsy is complete, a small bandage will be placed over the incision site and you will be given instructions on how to care for the area as it heals.

You may experience some mild bruising or swelling at the biopsy site, but this is normal and should resolve within a few days. Most women are able to return to their normal activities immediately following the biopsy.

When to Follow up After Stereotactic Biopsy

Following your biopsy, your healthcare provider will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results and the next steps in your treatment plan. Depending on the results of the biopsy, additional testing or treatment may be recommended.

If the biopsy confirms the presence of breast cancer, your healthcare provider will discuss your treatment options with you, which may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Risks and Complications of Stereotactic Biopsy

Like all medical procedures, stereotactic biopsy does pose some risks and potential complications:.

Bleeding or infection at the biopsy site
Discomfort or pain during the procedure
In rare cases, damage to the surrounding tissue

Your healthcare provider will discuss the risks and potential complications of stereotactic biopsy with you prior to the procedure.

Conclusion

Stereotactic biopsy is a safe and highly accurate method for diagnosing breast abnormalities, including suspicious lumps or calcifications detected during a mammogram.

If you believe you may be a candidate for stereotactic biopsy, talk to your healthcare provider about your options and what to expect during the procedure.