Is
needle biopsy accurate?
Yes, many studies have shown that both surgical and needle
breast biopsies are essentially equal in their degree of
accuracy.
What
are the advantages of needle biopsy?
• Performed as a scheduled procedure in an outpatient
facility
• Avoids general anesthesia
• Takes only 1 to 2 hours
• Less expensive than surgical biopsy
• Quick return to normal activities
Is
the procedure painful?
Not usually. Many women say they didn't feel anything other
than a "pinch or brief burning sensation". Since
only a tiny incision is needed to insert the needle, no
stitches are required. Frequently, patients go back to work
or continue their normal daily activities immediately after
their biopsy. The biopsied breast may be tender for 24 hours,
but it is rarely painful.
Are
there any risks with needle biopsy?
A small amount of bleeding may occur. This is never life
threatening and may result in brief "skin bruising".
If you have a bleeding tendency, you need to disclose this.
If you are taking "blood thinners" or aspirin,
you will be advised to temporarily discontinue them.
Is
needle biopsy always preferred over traditional surgical
methods?
Not in all instances. In some cases, surgical biopsy is
still the procedure of choice. Occasionally a suspicious
area is too small or in an awkward position so that biopsy
using a needle technique is not successful. Each patient's
situation must be evaluated on its own merit before a decision
to perform needle biopsy is made.
What
happens after the biopsy?
The pathologist who examines the tissue will send a report
to your doctor.
Your doctor will then let you know the results.
What
if the biopsy is "negative" for cancer?
In most cases no more treatment or evaluation is required.
Usually a mammogram or breast ultrasound test is scheduled
for 6 months later to ensure no additional changes in the
breast tissue.
What
if the biopsy is "positive" for cancer?
Your doctor will provide you with information on your options.
However, if you should need additional information, you
can call your local American Cancer Society. The number
for the San Antonio area is 210-614-4211.
How
do I obtain more information about needle biopsy?
Tell your doctor how you feel about your concerns. He or
she will understand and discuss your situation and the options
available to obtain a tissue sample. Remember, most suspicious
areas detected on mammograms turn out not to be malignant.
South Texas Radiology Imaging Centers offers needle breast
biopsies at the locations listed below. Please call us at
210-617-9000 if we can answer any additional questions.
Breast
Biopsies performed at the following centers:
Click on name of Center here for map and location information.
Women's
Imaging Center
