Image-guided Biopsy & Needle Localization
An image-guided biopsy of the breast may be performed with ultrasound, x-ray (stereotactic) or MRI guidance. In the case of needle localizations & surgical excisional biopsies, the radiologist will use either ultrasound or mammography to guide a wire to the area of concern.
The type of procedure and image guidance is selected to optimize the sampling success while keeping in mind your comfort.
Stereotactic & MRI-guided biopsies are performed with the patient laying on their stomach with the breast hanging through an aperture in the table. Ultrasound-guided biopsies and ultrasound-guided needle localizations are performed with a patient on either their back or side. Mammography-guided needle localizations are typically performed with the patient sitting in a chair.
Procedure: What you can expect
The technologist will escort you to a changing room and then to the procedural or consultation room. The procedure will be explained in detail and a series of screening questions asked. You will be asked to sign a permission (consent) form. Prior to the procedure, the radiologist will meet with you to answer any concerns you may have regarding the procedure.
The procedure usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes but sometimes longer depending on the image guidance and the number of sites targeted.
Details of the Biopsy Procedures
Following are links to RadiologyInfo.org, which provides detailed information of the following breast biopsy procedures.
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