Ultrasound Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy and Breast Core Biopsy


Ultrasound guided biopsy is used to evaluate an area of concern or a mass in the breast that is visible on a breast ultrasound exam or a palpable mass. Using a local anesthetic to numb the biopsy area, the ultrasound probe is place over the area of the breast lump and the radiologist guides the biopsy needle directly into the mass. Tissue samples are taken and sent to pathology for analysis.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is a breast biopsy?
A breast biopsy means removing breast tissue for examination under the microscope. It is the only definitive way to diagnose the nature of a breast mass/lump or calcification. Approximately 80% of breast biopsies are benign.

A biopsy may require surgery (excisional biopsy); however, most breast biopsies can be accurately performed by placing a specially designed needle into the suspicious area (stereotactic core needle biopsy).

ARYA STANA BONE & BREAST CARE uses state of the art equipment with the lowest possible radiation dose techniques.

How do you determine the right procedure for each patient?
If you need a breast biopsy, you will be advised by the breast radiologist on which method is the best for your individual condition. You, our breast radiologist, and your Doctor (if necessary) can together decide what is best for you.

What is ultrasound-guided breast biopsy?
An ultrasound-guided biopsy may be recommended if an area of concern is found on your mammogram or ultrasound exam.  The breast radiologist uses ultrasound to guide her while taking small samples of tissue from the area of interest. The sample is then sent to pathology for evaluation. Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is a highly accurate procedure used to locate suspicious tissue within the breast. The procedure may reduce the need to surgically remove tissue. After placing an ultrasound probe over the site of the breast lump and using local anesthesia, the radiologist guides a biopsy needle directly into the tissue of interest.

How should I prepare for the procedure?
An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is minimally invasive. However, there is a risk of bleeding whenever the skin is penetrated. For this reason, if you are taking aspirin or a blood thinner, you may be advised to stop before the procedure. You may want to have a relative or friend come with you to lend support or to drive you home afterward. You will usually be fine to drive yourself.

How is the procedure performed?
You will be placed either on your back or turned slightly to the side while the ultrasound probe is used to locate the lesion. A local anesthetic is applied to the skin or is injected to be sure that you will feel no discomfort during the procedure. A very small nick is made in the skin at the site where the biopsy needle is to be inserted. The breast radiologist will constantly monitor the lesion site with the ultrasound probe and guide a hollow biopsy needle directly into the tissue to obtain the specimen.

What will I experience during the procedure?
You will be awake during your biopsy and should have little or no discomfort. Generally, the biopsy is completed in less than an hour. It is not necessary to close the tiny skin incision with sutures or stitches; a small dressing will do. Most patients are able to resume their usual activities later the same day.

Who interprets the results and how do I get them?
A Pathologist will examine the tissue specimens after they are taken. A definite diagnosis will be available within a few days. You will be contacted and informed of your results.

Do you need anesthesia for a biopsy?
A local anesthetic is applied to numb the area.

How long does a breast biopsy take?
We ask patients to allocate 1 1/2 hours for their biopsy appointment. This gives us time to administer the local anesthetic, perform the biopsy, and address any concerns.

Do I need a referral to have a breast biopsy?
If you have seen your Doctor prior to your appointment you may be  referred for a biopsy.

If you have any symptoms and concerns and make an appointment directly you do not need a referral.