Stereotactic Breast Biopsy

What is Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?

A stereotactic breast biopsy is a non-surgical procedure to evaluate mammographic abnormalities in the breast. It combines mammography with computer assisted needle placement.  

What can I expect during a Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?

The entire procedure takes approximately an hour. The patient lies face down on a specially designed table, which has a hole through which the breast is placed. Special images of the breast are taken and the computer precisely locates the abnormality. The skin is numbed and a biopsy needle is placed into the abnormality. Tissue samples are obtained for pathologic analysis.  

Following the procedure you may have some bruising and tenderness for a day or two. Full activity may be resumed in a couple of days.  

Is it painful?

Local anesthesia is used to numb the skin. Deep pain may be experienced during the procedure since the chest wall nerve endings are not anesthetized. Most patients experience minimal to mild pain. Some feel moderate pain and a few experience severe pain.  

Will I have a scar?

Only a tiny incision is made. A special Band-Aid covers this area after the procedure. Usually there is no scar. 

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