Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
A stereotactic breast biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure, which uses x-ray imaging techniques to gather tissue samples from a breast abnormality. Sometimes these abnormalities turn out not to be a problem. If there is a potential problem, early detection is essential.
A stereotactic breast biopsy is a procedure that can be used in some instances, as an alternative to more invasive surgical biopsies. Using x-ray imaging, your breasts will be compressed (similar to a mammogram) to help locate the abnormality. You will lie on your stomach during the procedure.
The radiologist will use imaging techniques to locate the abnormality. Once the abnormality is located a local anesthetic is injected and several tissue samples will be extracted to be sent to, and interpreted by, a pathologist. After the tissue is removed, a small metallic marker will be placed. This marker is a reference point for future workups if needed, and confirms that the area of concern has been biopsied. Following your procedure, you will be given a mammogram to document the position of the marker.
A stereotactic breast biopsy does not require hospitalization or general anesthesia. Most patients experience some minor discomfort during this procedure.
The obtained specimens will be sent to a pathology laboratory. Once the results are provided by the lab, which may take a few days, a final results report is sent to your referring provider, who will then explain the results and answer any follow up questions.
The Carol Milgard Breast Center is fully accredited in Stereotactic Breast Biopsy by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR only grants the gold seal of accreditation when a breast center provides patients the highest level of image quality and patient safety.
Find out more
Read our Fast Facts for answers to your questions, like those below.
- What will my stereotactic biopsy be like?
- How do I prepare for stereotactic biopsy?
- My doctor told me I needed to get more tests. Why?
- What are some of the risk factors associated with breast cancer?
- Why is early detection so important?
