Ultrasound Breast Biopsy
What is an ultrasound guided breast biopsy?
Ultrasound guided breast biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses sound waves (ultrasound) to pinpoint suspicious area in the breast so that tissue samples may be withdrawn with a needle. The procedure requires little recovery time and there is no significant scarring to the breast.
How do you prepare for an ultrasound guided breast biopsy?
Please do not wear deodorant, lotion, powder or perfume under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the procedure. If you take any aspirin product or ibuprofen product (such as Advil or Motrin) try to avoid taking them for one week before your biopsy. Take all other medication as usual.
What happens during the procedure?
To begin your breast will be scanned and the technologist and radiologist will mark your skin over the abnormality. The radiologist will clean your breast with antiseptic and numb the area of the breast to be biopsied by injecting a local anesthetic. This is done with a tiny needle. After the local anesthetic has taken effect, the radiologist will make a tiny incision (usually less than an inch). The radiologist will then draw out small tissue samples. Typically five biopsy samples are obtained.
What happens after the procedure?
There is no need for stitches. A dressing is applied and you will usually be able to return immediately to your normal activity. In some cases there may be a small amount of bruising and discomfort. Tylenol may be used for relief of any discomfort. We recommend you avoid excercise or strenuous activity for twenty-four hours after the procedure. The tissue samples will be sent to the pathology laboratory for analysis.
