Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy

Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy

Also known as ultrasound biopsy or ultrasound-guided injection, ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is an accurate way to take samples of tissue from within the breast that are visible on ultrasound but may not be able to be felt by you or your doctor.

The procedure prevents the need to surgically remove tissue and eliminates the radiation exposure that comes from using x-rays to locate the area of concern.

An ultrasound probe is placed over the site of the lump and the radiologist, using anaesthesia, places a specialised spring biopsy needle into the mass. Tissue specimens are then taken for examination by a pathologist.

Pre Examination

You will need to make an appointment for this procedure.

Patients with a coagulopathy (blood clotting problem) who are taking regular aspirin or warfarin may be required to stop these for a period prior to the examination. Please tell the radiologist if you are taking these medications, and tell him or her if stopping this regimen is a concern.

You will be required to sign a consent form, and we recommend you bring a support person.

The Examination

Using ultrasound, the radiologist will identify the area to be biopsied or injected. Under sterile conditions and local anaesthetic, he or she will insert a needle into the area and take a tissue sample.

The radiologist usually collects between three and five samples.

Post Examination

The centre staff will give you after-care instructions before you leave.

The medical laboratory result will be available in approximately five working days.