Breast Biopsy Procedures

Arrival: Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled exam.

1. Please have a light meal prior to exam.
2. Patients on Coumadin (Warfarin) MUST stay off the medication for 5 days prior to the scheduled exam date.
3. BLOOD THINNERS: All blood thinners MUST be stopped 5-7 days (length of time is drug specific) prior to the scheduled exam date.
4. Discontinuation of blood thinners must be approved by the patient’s prescribing MD.
5. Wear a two-piece outfit for comfort along with a bra to provide support for your breasts after the procedure.
6. Do not use lotions, powders, or deodorant under your arms or around the breast area for this exam.

MR – BREAST BIOPSY PROCEDURES

Arrival: Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled exam.

1. Clothing and Accessories: Please refrain from wearing any jewelry or clothing containing metal. Piercing in area of interest should be removed if possible.
2. Females: Please wear a sports bra or bra without wires, metal fasteners or adjusters.

MG – STEREO BIOPSY

Arrival: Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled exam.

1. Please have a light meal prior to exam.
2. Wear a two-piece outfit for comfort along with a bra to provide support for your breasts after the procedure.
3. Do not use lotions, powders, or deodorant under your arms or around the breast area for this exam.

Driving: If you had Xanax administered for this exam, you may not drive yourself home from the exam and must have arranged transportation. Public transportation is not acceptable unless accompanied by a responsible adult friend or family member.

A breast biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of breast tissue is collected and reviewed to determine if any signs of breast cancer or other abnormalities are present.

A breast biopsy may be recommended if there is a suspicious area in the breast that requires further examination to determine if it is cancerous or benign.

There are three main types of breast biopsies – Ultrasound Guided (US), MRI Guided (MR), and Mammography Guided (MG). At Imaging Healthcare Specialists, we perform all three types. Each of these has different advantages and disadvantages.

Ultrasound Guided (US): An ultrasound is used to guide the needle to the abnormal area for a core needle or fine needle aspiration biopsy.

MRI Guided (MR): An MRI is used to guide a biopsy needle to a suspicious area in the breast. This is a highly detailed imaging technique that can locate areas that may not be visible with other methods.

Mammography Guided (MG): This is a type of core needle biopsy that uses mammography to guide the needle to the abnormal area. It’s typically used when the abnormality is not visible by ultrasound but can be seen on a mammogram.

A breast biopsy is generally not considered highly painful, but the level of discomfort can vary depending on the type of biopsy, the location of the suspicious area, and the individual’s pain tolerance.

Breast biopsies usually take 20-60 minutes depending on the type of biopsy performed. The procedure itself is fast, time may be necessary for preparation and potential post-op monitoring.

Preparing for a breast biopsy is important to ensure the procedure goes smoothly. It is recommended that you eat a small meal beforehand, unless instructed otherwise by your physician. You should also consult your doctor about stopping any blood thinners at least 5 days prior to the procedure. Additionally, avoid using powders, lotions, and deodorants on the day of your biopsy to ensure clear imaging and a smooth procedure.

For more information about breast biopsies, please contact the professionals at Imaging Healthcare Specialists.