Services

Breast Biopsy

What is a biopsy?

A biopsy is the removal of body tissue for examination under a microscope, by a pathologist, to determine the state of health or disease in the tissue.

What is a needle breast biopsy?

It is a simplified method of obtaining a tissue sample from within the breast. When a mammogram detects a suspicious area, the radiologist may recommend a biopsy.

In the past, all breast biopsies were done surgically; but, with improvements in technology, many breast biopsies are now performed more simply on an outpatient basis using a needle.

Needle breast biopsies are performed by a radiologist in one of two ways:

1- Ultrasound

This method uses sound waves to help the radiologist guide the needle to the area to biopsy.

2- Specialized Mammography Machine

This method uses computers to help guide the needle precisely to the area to be sampled. In either case, once the needle is in place, a small sample of tissue is removed and sent to the pathologist for examination.

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?

• It is recommended that wearing of jewelry and hair pins/apparel be kept at a minimum.
  
• No eye makeup.
  
• Patients with pacemakers, cerebral aneurysm clips, bio or neuro stimulators, inner ear implants and certain other medical devices cannot be examined.
• Please inform your physician for an alternative course of action.

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:

Women's Imaging Center