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The Sterotactic Biopsy Procedure
Based on the results of your last mammogram, your physician is recommending that an area of your breast be biopsied in order to obtain further information. At Hartford Hospital, this can be accomplished using a procedure known as stereotactic core biopsy of the breast. During this procedure, a biopsy will be obtained using a special automated biopsy needle which can be placed with a high degree of accuracy by computer guidance using stereotactic mammogram images.
During the examination, the lights in the room will be dimmed and you will be asked to lie face down on a specially designed table. There is an opening in the center of the table to allow your breast to be placed through the opening. The procedure is performed using a mammogram machine mounted underneath the table. Initially, several localizing mammogram x-rays will be obtained to identify the area of the breast to be biopsied and following this, a local anesthetic will be applied to the skin and the biopsy procedure performed. Usually several samples are obtained in the area of concern and with each sampling, you will hear a click and feel a bit of pressure; most women do not feel any significant degree of pain with this procedure. Usually, about five (5) samples are obtained to confirm accurate positioning of the biopsy device. After the procedure, you will be given post-biopsy instructions and will be able to leave the Radiology Department. Overall, the procedure should take about one (1) hour. Before the biopsy procedure is performed, a Radiologist will review this procedure with you and you will have an opportunity to ask any questions that you might have.
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