Our Summary

This research paper is about a study that tested the effectiveness of using ultrasound-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsies (US-VABB) for diagnosing breast cancer. This method was used in cases where traditional methods couldn’t be used due to factors such as thin breast tissue or the location of the possible cancer.

The study involved 187 patients who had shown signs of possible breast cancer (microcalcifications) in their mammograms. Out of these patients, 30 couldn’t undergo the traditional method of biopsy due to different reasons, like having small breasts or the suspected cancer being located too close to the chest wall. In these cases, the researchers used US-VABB to take multiple tissue samples after confirming the presence of microcalcifications through a special x-ray.

The study found that US-VABB was successful in all cases. It was also well-tolerated by the patients and didn’t lead to any complications. In conclusion, the researchers recommended using US-VABB when traditional methods aren’t suitable. This procedure is reliable, accurate, less expensive, and doesn’t expose patients to radiation.

FAQs

  1. What is the ultrasound-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (US-VABB) method?
  2. Why was the US-VABB method used in some cases instead of the traditional biopsy method?
  3. What were the findings of the study regarding the effectiveness of the US-VABB method?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast biopsy is to make sure to follow any post-procedure care instructions provided, such as avoiding strenuous activity or taking any prescribed medications. It is also important to keep the biopsy site clean and dry to prevent infection. Additionally, it is recommended to follow up with the doctor for the biopsy results and any further recommendations for treatment or monitoring.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for breast biopsy include those who have:

  1. Abnormal findings on a mammogram, such as a lump, mass, or microcalcifications.
  2. Breast changes, such as skin thickening, nipple discharge, or changes in breast size or shape.
  3. Personal or family history of breast cancer.
  4. Previous breast biopsies that showed abnormal or inconclusive results.
  5. High breast density, which can make it harder to detect abnormalities on a mammogram.
  6. Breast implants, which can make it difficult to perform traditional biopsies.
  7. Inconclusive results from other imaging tests, such as ultrasound or MRI.
  8. Suspicious physical examination findings, such as a lump that can be felt by the patient or healthcare provider.

Overall, patients who have any concerning breast symptoms or risk factors for breast cancer may be recommended for a breast biopsy to further investigate and diagnose any potential abnormalities.

Timeline

Before the breast biopsy:

  1. Patient notices signs of possible breast cancer, such as a lump or changes in breast tissue.
  2. Patient undergoes a mammogram to detect abnormalities, such as microcalcifications.
  3. Radiologist recommends a biopsy to further investigate the suspicious findings.
  4. Patient may undergo additional imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, to determine the best approach for the biopsy.

After the breast biopsy:

  1. Patient undergoes an ultrasound-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (US-VABB) if traditional methods are not suitable.
  2. Multiple tissue samples are taken using the US-VABB technique after confirming the presence of microcalcifications.
  3. The biopsy procedure is well-tolerated by the patient and does not lead to any complications.
  4. Tissue samples are sent to a pathology lab for analysis to determine if cancer is present.
  5. Results of the biopsy are communicated to the patient and further treatment options are discussed based on the findings.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a breast biopsy and why is it being recommended for me?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with the biopsy procedure?
  3. How will the biopsy be performed (e.g. ultrasound-guided, stereotactic, MRI-guided)?
  4. What will happen during the biopsy procedure and how long will it take?
  5. Will I need to take any precautions or follow any specific instructions before or after the biopsy?
  6. How long will it take to get the biopsy results?
  7. What will the biopsy results tell us and what are the next steps depending on the results?
  8. Are there any alternative biopsy methods that could be considered in my case?
  9. Will I need additional tests or procedures after the biopsy?
  10. Are there any specific questions or concerns I should discuss with the radiologist or surgeon performing the biopsy?

Reference

Authors: Pistolese CA, Castrignanò A, Ricci F, Meucci R, Croce G, Mondillo M, Collura A, Perretta T, Floris R. Journal: Clin Breast Cancer. 2019 Apr;19(2):e352-e357. doi: 10.1016/j.clbc.2018.12.002. Epub 2018 Dec 7. PMID: 30733050