Minimally Invasive Breast Biopsy

During a minimally invasive breast biopsy you are placed face down on the table and your breast hangs through a hole in the table. The breast is then imaged with a low dose mammogram to find the density or area of calcifications. Once the area is identified, the computer helps to determine the appropriate placement of the mammotome device. Once images are confirmed, the breast is cleansed and anesthetized with local anesthesia.

After a tiny nick is made in the skin, the device is positioned and checked. The area is further infiltrated with Lidocaine to numb the area. The samples are then taken and an x-ray confirms the presence of the calcifications in the specimens. At the completion of the procedure, a radiologic marker is placed to mark the area for future reference. The marker may be made of titanium or surgical steel. Don't worry; they will not set off the metal detectors in the airport and are MRI safe.

This marker allows us to know where to return to if further surgery is needed, and it also allows the radiologist in the future know that you did indeed have a biopsy of that area. When the procedure is completed, the technologist will initially hold pressure on the area and they apply steri-strips or surgical glue. An outer dressing is placed. You may have a regular mammogram immediately after the procedure if one is necessary to confirm that the appropriate area has been biopsied.

Benefits:
• Minimally invasive
• Less disruption to normal tissue
• Specifically targets the area in question
• More rapid pathology evaluation
• No general anesthesia
• Less time away from your work and play

Risks:
• Bleeding, hematoma
• Infection
• Failure to sample the appropriate area
• Bruising
• Neck stiffness (resulting from the positioning on the table)
• Repeat procedure if unsuccessful