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Stereotactic Breast Biopsy

How to Prepare for Your Stereotactic Biopsy

Based on the results of your last mammogram, your provider has recommended a breast biopsy in order to obtain further information. A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken for further examination by the laboratory.

During this procedure, small samples of tissue are removed from the breast using a hollow needle. The needle is precisely guided to the correct location using X-ray guidance.

Prior to Procedure

  • Eat a light meal.
  • Do not take aspirin, aspirin products or blood thinners for at least three to seven days prior to the test. Consult your physician’s office for more complete instructions if you are currently taking these medications.
  • If you use pain relief medicine, use only products containing acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen, as well as pain medication prescribed by your provider.
  • You will be able to drive yourself home, although some patients may prefer to bring someone with them to drive home. A comfortable waiting area will be provided for your companion.

Day of the Exam

  • It is best to wear a loose-fitting, two-piece outfit such as a sweat suit or slacks and a blouse.
  • Do not wear earrings or necklaces.
  • Be sure to bring or wear a comfortable bra.
  • Avoid using deodorant, talcum powder or bath oil on the day of your biopsy.

During the Procedure

During the procedure, you will be positioned either sitting upright or lying face down. Your breast will be moderately compressed and held in position throughout the procedure. Several X-rays will be taken, which will help locate the questionable area and calculate where the radiologist should place the biopsy instrument. The doctor will inject a local anesthetic into the area where the needle will be placed, and small samples of tissue are removed from the breast using a hollow needle. The needle is precisely guided to the correct location using X-ray guidance. A biopsy site marker will be placed in the breast and a mammogram will follow to confirm placement. During the procedure, you will be told what is occurring and your comfort level will be continually evaluated.

After the Procedure

  • Manual pressure will be applied to the needle placement area.
  • A bandage and cold compress will be applied to relieve swelling and bruising.
  • You may take a non-aspirin pain reliever like Tylenol every 4 to 6 hours to help alleviate any discomfort, if needed.

For 24 hours, do not participate in strenuous activity, such as:

  • aerobics
  • weightlifting
  • tennis
  • skiing
  • vacuuming or similar activities

Most patients can resume regular work or activities 24 hours after the procedure.

You may notice some bruising of the area, which should resolve within 5 to 7 days. If you notice any excessive swelling, bleeding, drainage, redness or heat, please call your physician.

Getting Your Biopsy Results

Waiting for biopsy results is never easy. Please note: many times, your provider and our nurse navigators are getting the results of your biopsy at the same exact time you do on the portal. Our nurse navigators will contact you after your biopsy for follow up if approval has been coordinated with your provider to disclose and discuss the results with you.