Biopsies are the only definitive way to confirm if breast tissue is benign or cancerous. Abnormalities are examined further by having a sample of tissue, cells or fluid extracted for evaluation in a laboratory.

The area of the breast will be numbed, and a small incision will be made. A hollow needle will be inserted into the nodule and small samples will be removed via a small vacuum. The samples are sent to a lab for analysis.

Ultrasound Guided vs. Stereotactic Guided

Ultrasound-Guided

An ultrasound-guided procedure will be conducted if the issue is detectable through ultrasound. The radiologist will administer a local anesthetic for your comfort before inserting the biopsy needle through a tiny incision in the skin to collect tissue samples for analysis. A small marker clip will be placed at the biopsy site to facilitate easy identification for subsequent monitoring or surgical intervention if required.

Stereotactic-Guided

A stereotactic-guided procedure will be conducted if the issue is detectable through mammography. The radiologist will administer a local anesthetic for your comfort before inserting the biopsy needle through a tiny incision in the skin to collect tissue samples for analysis. A small marker clip will be placed at the biopsy site to facilitate easy identification for subsequent monitoring or surgical intervention if required.

There are medication modifications required for these exams. Please call our Interventional Scheduling Department at (315) 362-8346 to discuss with one of our specialists.