​Minimally Invasive Breast Biopsy

If a breast imaging exam shows an area that needs further evaluation, a breast biopsy may be recommended to determine whether the tissue is benign or cancerous. At Washington Women's Center, we offer several minimally invasive, outpatient breast biopsy options in a comfortable setting.

What is a breast biopsy?

A breast biopsy removes a small sample of tissue from an area of concern so it can be examined by a pathologist. A biopsy may be recommended when a mammogram, breast ultrasound, or breast MRI shows an abnormality that cannot be clearly identified as benign.

Many breast abnormalities are benign and only require follow-up imaging. When an area looks suspicious or cannot be clearly characterized, a biopsy can provide more information and help determine the next steps.

Minimally invasive breast biopsy options

In many cases, a breast biopsy can be performed without surgery. A minimally invasive breast biopsy uses a special needle to remove tissue through a very small opening in the skin.

Depending on the location and appearance of the area being evaluated, your biopsy may use:

• Ultrasound guidance – Uses ultrasound images to guide the biopsy needle.
• Stereotactic guidance – Uses specialized mammography equipment to target an area that may not be visible with ultrasound.
• MRI guidance – Uses breast MRI images to guide the biopsy when the area is best seen on MRI.
• Vacuum-assisted biopsy – Uses a specialized device to collect multiple tissue samples through a small skin opening.

Your radiologist will recommend the imaging guidance that is most appropriate for your situation.

What to expect during a breast biopsy

Most minimally invasive breast biopsies are performed as outpatient procedures using local anesthesia.

During the procedure:

1. The area of concern is located using the appropriate imaging technology.
2. Your breast is numbed with local anesthesia.
3. A small opening is made in the skin.
4. A biopsy needle is guided to the area of concern.
5. Tissue samples are removed for examination.
6. In some cases, a tiny marker is placed at the biopsy site for future reference.

Because the procedure uses a small opening rather than a traditional surgical incision, there is generally less scarring and a shorter recovery time than with a surgical breast biopsy.

Will a breast biopsy hurt?

The area is numbed with local anesthesia before the biopsy. You may feel pressure during the procedure, but there should be little discomfort.

Afterward, you may have some bruising, swelling, or tenderness around the biopsy site. You will receive instructions for caring for the area at home.

What happens to the biopsy tissue?

The tissue samples are sent to a pathology laboratory for examination. The pathologist determines whether the cells are benign, precancerous, or cancerous.

Results are typically available within two working days and are sent to your referring physician. Your physician will discuss the results with you and explain any recommended next steps.

Breast biopsy care at Washington Women's Center

At Washington Women's Center, minimally invasive breast biopsies are performed with imaging guidance to help accurately target the area of concern. Our goal is to make the biopsy process as comfortable and straightforward as possible.