Breast Biopsy Services at AAR
A breast biopsy is used to take a sample of breast tissue to be tested for cancer. A breast biopsy is the only way to verify if breast tissue us benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Type of Breast Biopsies
Association of Alexandria Radiologists provides traditional ultrasound-guided and stereotactic-guided biopsies as well as newest 3D tomographic-guided biopsy. Tomographic breast biopsy utilizes 3D mammography to capture exceptionally detailed images of breast tissue. This is particularly helpful when performing a biopsy on subtle lesions. The newest 3D tomographic-guided biopsies offer many advantages, including more precise targeting, better detection of lesions, and reduced procedure times.
Core Needle Biopsy
A needle biopsy is performed with a local anesthetic which affords minimal if any discomfort. With this procedure, no stitches are required and most women can resume normal daily activity immediately. Keep in mind that more than 80% of all breast abnormalities are benign or non-cancerous.
Cyst Aspiration
A simple procedure performed under ultrasound guidance by placing a needle into the cyst and extracting fluid into a syringe. A cyst aspiration is performed with a local anesthetic prior to fluid extraction. The procedure should take no longer than a half hour and most women resume to work and normal daily activity immediately.
What to Expect During a Breast Biopsy
Image guided breast biopsies are quick, non-surgical, minimally-invasive procedures. Local anesthetic is used to minimize your discomfort. You will lie on your back or side. The radiologist will insert the biopsy needle through a very small incision and collect a few tissue samples. No stitches are needed. Your tissue samples will then be sent to a pathologist for analysis.
How to Prepare for Your Procedure
Avoid aspirin, aspirin-containing products, similar blood thinning products and anti-inflammatory medicines (such as Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin or Aleve) for 5 days prior to the biopsy procedure, unless otherwise instructed at the time of scheduling.
- If you are taking a blood thinner, such as Coumadin, check with your referring physician before your biopsy, as you may need to briefly discontinue use of this drug;
- If you have any questions concerning whether you should continue or discontinue taking a specific medicine prior to your biopsy procedure, please contact our office at least five days before the date of your scheduled biopsy;
- On the day of your biopsy, wear a comfortable two-piece outfit, including a comfortable supportive bra;
- Do not use powder, lotion or deodorant;
- Light meal only before the procedure.
After a Breast Biopsy
Modern image guided biopsies require very little recovery time. Most women may resume normal activity right away however, avoid strenuous activity or certain blood-thinning medications (like aspirin) for 48 hours. After your breast biopsy, most women may follow these recommendations to minimize discomfort and promote healing at the biopsy site:
- Use an ice pack in your bra for at least 4 hours after your biopsy
- Sleep in your bra for at least 2 nights
- Take Tylenol or Ibuprofen (not aspirin) for any discomfort
When will pathology reports be ready?
Your biopsy samples are sent to a pathologist, who will analyze and provide your physician and AAR with your diagnostic results and report. It typically takes three days from the day of your biopsy appointment. Your doctor’s office will be contacted as soon as the pathology report is finalized.
Breast Biopsy with Association of Alexandria Radiologists
We understand that a breast biopsy can be stressful experience. Our radiologists and staff are trained to make this procedure as seamless and comfortable as possible. The Association of Alexandria Radiologists provides the highest quality breast imaging with a compassionate staff to help you feel comfortable. Please contact us to learn more about breast biopsies or other breast imaging services. See all our imaging centers in Alexandria.
