biopsy
ULTRASOUND-GUIDED BREAST BIOPSY PROCEDURE
An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is a minimally invasive, outpatient radiology procedure used to obtain tissue samples for microscopic examination. Ultrasound guidance is used to find the area, which usually cannot be felt. The radiologist removes samples of breast tissue using a special needle. These tissue samples are sent to the pathologist for review. The patient’s healthcare provider will receive a pathology report several days after the biopsy and will review the results with the patient.
Preparation for the procedure:
There are no diet restrictions; eat and drink as usual. Take your usual medications on the day of your appointment. However, blood-thinners (anticoagulants) such as heparin, Coumadin or Plavix should be discontinued at least 24 hours prior to the procedure.
Please advise us if you have any allergies prior to your appointment. Lidocaine is the local anesthetic normally used for this procedure.
A two piece outfit will be more comfortable. Please wear or bring a supportive bra.
After the procedure:
- The radiologist or technologist will apply pressure to the biopsy area for several minutes to stop any bleeding. Your incision will be closed with a steri-strip and a sterile gauze dressing. You will be given a small ice pack to put in your bra for a few hours to help prevent bruising.
- Please avoid heavy lifting for the next two days to further prevent bleeding or extended bruising.
- Take a non-aspirin pain reliever like Tylenol, Advil, Motrin, etc., if you experience any discomfort. Avoid aspirin for about 48 hours.
- Remove the gauze dressing and shower the morning after your biopsy.
- Leave the steri-strips in place; they should begin to peel off on their own in four to five days.
- Check the biopsy area daily. If you notice excessive pain, bleeding, swelling, drainage, redness or the area is warm to the touch, please call the center to speak with the radiologist for further instructions.
Note: You may notice some bruising of the biopsy area which should go away in about a week. You may also have a very small amount of bleeding. If bleeding occurs after you leave the center, apply continuous direct pressure over the incision site for ten minutes and replace the bandages. It is common to feel a small lump after the biopsy. It will slowly reabsorb.
Results and Follow-Up
Your clinician’s office should contact you with the results of your biopsy about 3-5 working days after the procedure. A diagnostic mammogram and/or a breast ultrasound is often recommended at six months post biopsy.
If you have any questions about your procedure or results, call the center and ask to speak with the radiologist at (954) 426-3006, Option 5.