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Stereotactic Breast Biopsy

Stereotactic breast biopsy is an important technological advancement used in the early detection of breast cancer, providing a less invasive biopsy alternative to open surgical biopsy. This type of biopsy procedure is usually advised by your doctor when an abnormality is found on your mammogram.

Stereotactic breast biopsy is a simple and safe outpatient procedure performed by our licensed and certified breast imaging specialists. Advanced computer imaging technology is used to map the precise location of areas of the breast that appear abnormal in the mammogram, but cannot be located by touch or by ultrasound. A small section of the suspicious tissue is removed with pinpoint accuracy, while minimizing scarring. The sample can then be sent to an outside laboratory for further examination.

Our technologists and radiologists are fully trained and experienced in stereotactic breast biopsy.

About the Procedure

The entire stereotactic biopsy procedure will take about 1 hour. You will be positioned face down on a specially designed table with your breast placed through an opening in the tabletop. The tabletop will be raised and the specialist will perform the procedure from beneath. Your breast will be slightly compressed and held in a fixed position to ensure the accuracy of the procedure. x-rays will be taken and the specialist, using computer-imaging technology, will locate the specific area of the breast tissue that will be sampled. The area to be tested will then be numbed with a local anesthetic. A small incision (approximately ¼") will be made, and the biopsy device will be inserted. You might feel some slight pressure during this time. Between 3 and 5 samples will be removed and forwarded to an outside laboratory for analysis. No stitches will be required. After the biopsy is complete, you will need to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for the remainder of the day.

How to Prepare

When you make your appointment, please notify us of any medications you are taking. You will be asked to discontinue the use of blood-thinning medications, including aspirins and aspirin-like products, several days before the procedure. Do not use underarm powder, deodorant or lotion before the procedure. Eat a light meal beforehand, and wear a comfortable 2-piece garment.

Biopsy Results

Your exam results will be available to your doctor within 24 to 48 hours. You should consult your doctor directly to review your results.

Locations Offering Stereotactic Breast Biopsy

Stereotactic Breast Biopsy is offered at our Danbury location.