Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy
- Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy
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Lumps or abnormalities in the breast are often detected by physical examination, mammography, or other imaging studies. However, it is not always possible to tell from these imaging tests whether a growth is benign or cancerous.
A breast biopsy is performed to remove some cells—either surgically or through a less invasive procedure involving a hollow needle—from a suspicious area in the Breast and examine them under a microscope to determine a diagnosis. Image-guided needle biopsy is not designed to remove the entire lesion, but most of a very small lesion may be removed in the process of biopsy.
In ultrasound-guided breast biopsy, ultrasound imaging is used to help guide the radiologist's instruments to the site of the abnormal growth
Why should I do it ?
- An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy can be performed when a breast ultrasound shows an abnormality such as:
- A suspicious solid mass
- A distortion in the structure of the breast tissue
- An area of abnormal tissue change
- There are times when your doctor may decide that ultrasound guidance for biopsy is appropriate even for a mass that can be felt.
Any preparations needed?
- You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
- You may need to remove all clothing and jewelry in the area to be examined.
- You may be asked to wear a gown during the procedure.
- You should report to your doctor all medications that you are taking, including herbal supplements, and if you have any allergies, especially to anesthesia.
- Your physician will advise you to stop taking aspirin or a blood thinner three days before your procedure.
- Inform your doctor about recent illnesses or other medical conditions.
- You may want to have a relative or friend accompany you and drive you home afterward. This is recommended if you have been sedated.