Why would I need a breast biopsy?
Although a recent mammogram may show an abnormality in your breast, only a biopsy can determine if that abnormality is cancerous or benign (noncancerous). Four out of five women will find they have a benign condition. Usually, it means tissue is removed for examination. This is the only way to determine if an abnormal tissue is cancerous or benign.

What is Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?
Stereotactic biopsy is a new diagnostic tool used when a mammogram detects an abnormal condition in a woman's breast. It is a non-surgical way to obtain the tissue sample needed to make a conclusive diagnosis about that abnormality. This procedure is state-of-the-art and provides early, accurate results. Other types of surgical biopsies continue to be used in specific situations. Your physician will discuss these if they would be a better alternative for you.

What are the advantages of a Stereotactic Breast Biopsy?
Its ability to find tiny abnormalities increases the chances for finding cancer early and identifying its specific type. This helps your physician to respond with prompt, aggressive treatment for better outcomes. This procedure is less invasive, less painful, less scarring compared to other methods. It takes far less time to perform this nonsurgical technique and you'll be back home the same day. The cost of this procedure is also far less expensive than other types of biopsies. Stereotactic biopsies are highly accurate. Thousands of these procedures have been performed at leading medical centers throughout this country since it was cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1995. It is three times more accurate than other methods in diagnosing some conditions associated with early stage breast cancer, the time when it is most treatable.

How does the procedure work?
This kind of biopsy is similar to a mammogram in some ways. Instead of standing up, you lie face down and your breast is compressed just as it is during a mammogram. You will be on a special examination table where your breast is positioned through a round opening in the table. Then you and the table are elevated so a physician and assisting technician can work from below. A computer helps the physician to position a needle-like biopsy probe correctly. Before proceeding, the physician numbs that area of your breast with a local anesthetic. Once the anesthetic takes effect, the biopsy probe is inserted, requiring a tiny nick in your skin that is less than one-eighth of an inch.

How long does the procedure take?
The entire biopsy takes about an hour. After a surgical dressing is applied, you'll be able to go home with some simple follow-up instructions.

When will I know the results?
Biopsy results take just a few days and your physician will discuss them with you.

Who can I call to learn more about stereotactic breast biopsy?
If you have a question about breast biopsy or other Breast Health Services at Sarasota Memorial, please call (941) 917-2636.