Breast Biopsy at Radiology Regional Women’s Imaging Centers.

Southwest Florida’s clear choice for comfort, expert care, and advanced technology in breast biopsy procedures.

After advanced imaging of the breast, if there is a questionable or suspicious mass identified, the only way to know if it is cancerous is through a biopsy of the tissue.

If your doctor orders a breast biopsy, it’s important to remember that 4 out of 5 biopsy results are not cancer.

Our fellowship trained breast imaging physicians at Radiology Regional Women’s Imaging Centers offer three types of breast biopsy:

Stereotactic
Ultrasound Guided
MRI Guided

The type of biopsy ordered will depend on a number of factors.

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Stereotactic Breast Biopsy at Radiology Regional Women’s Imaging Centers

During a Stereotactic Breast Needle Biopsy, small samples of tissue are removed from the breast using a hollow needle. The needle is precisely guided to the correct location using x-rays and computer automation.

Radiology Regional was the first center in Southwest Florida to receive accreditation from the American College of Radiology for Stereotactic Breast Needle Biopsy and Mammography. These advanced techniques are ideally suited to outpatient settings that provide added comfort and privacy for patients.

What can I expect during my Stereotactic Biopsy?

During the exam, you will be lying on your stomach or sitting upright in the biopsy unit. Your breast will be slightly compressed and held in position during the procedure. The skin of the breast will be anesthetized and a needle will be guided to the precise location. You may feel slight pressure, but you should not experience significant pain.

Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy at Radiology Regional Women’s Imaging Centers

An Ultrasound-Guided Needle Biopsy of the breast is similar to the Stereotactic Biopsy. Ultrasound is used in cases where the lesion is only seen with ultrasound, the position of the lesion is not adequately visualized with stereotaxis, or patient factors prevent the use of stereotactic imaging.
A definitive diagnosis is expected with both Stereotactic Breast Needle Biopsy and Ultrasound-Guided Breast Needle Biopsy.

Studies have shown the procedures to have an extremely high sensitivity and specificity which is equivalent to open-surgical biopsy. The specially designed needle guidance system has an accuracy of +/- 1 millimeter.

What can I expect during my Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy?

During the exam, you will be lying on your back, and sound waves are utilized to image your breast and guide the needle to the precise location. Your breast is not in compression for this procedure, and there is no radiation.

MRI Guided Breast Biopsy at Radiology Regional Women’s Imaging Centers

An MRI Guided Biopsy is used when an abnormality of the breast is not certain on either a mammogram or an ultrasound but is clearly seen on a breast MRI. This biopsy procedure is aided by the dedicated MRI coil and advanced, specialized software that gives our radiologist a clear picture of the area in question.

What can I expect during my MRI Guided Breast Biopsy?

You will be lying flat on your stomach with your breast in an open portion of the table, similar to the positioning that was utilized for the original diagnostic breast MRI. While in the breast holder, localization images will be obtained and the lesion will be noted on the computerized images.
The radiologist will return to the room and utilizing the compression paddle guidelines, the area of concern will be targeted on the breast. The breast will be sterilely cleaned. Anesthesia will be administered. A biopsy needle will be guided to the precise location.

Images will be obtained with the patient in the MRI bore. The patient, however, will be removed from the bore for easy access and reachability by the radiologist.

What can I expect after my breast biopsy?

Following any breast biopsy procedure, you will have tenderness at the site of the biopsy or bruising of the skin for several days. You will be sent home with specific instructions for care and follow-up.

In almost all instances a simple Band-Aid will suffice as a dressing, and a cold pack can be used to relieve swelling or bruising.

A mild analgesic such as Tylenol also can be used to relieve any discomfort. You will be able to return to most of your normal activities following the procedure.

If you notice increased swelling, redness, continuous bleeding or drainage, call Radiology Regional’s Administrative office at 239-936-2316 (weekdays 8:00am – 5:00pm) and you will be transferred to the appropriate resource. If you experience complications and need immediate assistance, or if your symptoms worsen and you cannot wait for normal business hours, please visit your nearest emergency room.

The final results from your biopsy are usually available from your referring physician 3-5 business days following the procedure.

To schedule your breast biopsy, call 239-936-4068 or 941-255-7945.

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Radiology Regional is proud to be Southwest Florida’s clear choice for expert care, quality service, and advanced technology in breast biopsy.