Our Summary

Breast biopsies, or the removal of breast tissue to check for cancer, can be guided by different methods such as ultrasound or MRI. Ultrasound-guided biopsies are preferred because they are cheaper and provide real-time images. However, some breast abnormalities are not clearly visible on ultrasound, so the researchers developed a new system called ACBUS-BS that combines ultrasound with MRI images to improve visibility.

The ACBUS-BS system uses a cone filled with a special liquid to scan and biopsy breasts of women lying on their stomach. The biopsy process involves four steps: locating the abnormal tissue, positioning the biopsy needle, preparing the equipment, and performing the biopsy.

The accuracy of the biopsy can be affected by several factors, such as the clarity of the images, the accuracy of the needle positioning, and the differences in sound speed between the breast tissue and the liquid in the cone. To test the system, the researchers created a fake breast with eight artificial abnormalities and measured the size of the biopsied tissue.

For the artificial breast, the total measurement error was less than 5 millimeters, which means that the system should be able to successfully biopsy abnormalities larger than 8 millimeters in diameter. However, the system’s effectiveness in patients needs to be tested in further studies.

In conclusion, the ACBUS-BS system could be a cost-effective alternative to MRI-guided biopsies, providing accurate biopsies of both visible and hidden breast abnormalities.

FAQs

  1. What is the ACBUS-BS system and how does it work in breast biopsies?
  2. What factors can affect the accuracy of a breast biopsy using the ACBUS-BS system?
  3. How effective is the ACBUS-BS system in detecting breast abnormalities larger than 8 millimeters?

Doctor’s Tip

Remember to discuss with your doctor which biopsy method is best for you based on your individual situation. It’s important to follow any pre-biopsy instructions given to you by your healthcare provider to ensure the procedure goes smoothly. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have about the biopsy process. It’s important to stay informed and be an active participant in your healthcare.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a breast biopsy include those with suspicious breast lumps or masses found during a physical exam or imaging tests such as mammograms or ultrasounds. Other indications for a breast biopsy may include abnormal changes in the breast tissue such as thickening, distortion, or changes in the skin, nipple, or lymph nodes.

Patients with a personal or family history of breast cancer, especially those with a genetic mutation such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, may also be recommended for a breast biopsy as a precautionary measure. Additionally, patients with a history of previous breast cancer or other breast conditions such as atypical ductal hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ may require regular breast biopsies for monitoring.

It is important for patients to discuss any concerns or symptoms with their healthcare provider to determine if a breast biopsy is necessary. Early detection and diagnosis through a breast biopsy can help guide appropriate treatment and improve outcomes for patients with breast cancer.

Timeline

Before the breast biopsy, a patient may undergo a physical examination, mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI to detect any abnormalities in the breast tissue. If an abnormality is found, a biopsy may be recommended to determine if it is cancerous.

During the breast biopsy procedure, the patient will be positioned on a table and the area to be biopsied will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic. The biopsy needle will be inserted into the breast to remove a sample of tissue, which will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis.

After the breast biopsy, the patient may experience some discomfort, bruising, or swelling at the biopsy site. It is important to follow any post-procedure instructions provided by the healthcare provider, such as avoiding strenuous activities and taking pain medication as needed. The results of the biopsy will be communicated to the patient by their healthcare provider, who will discuss the next steps in treatment if necessary.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the reason for recommending a breast biopsy?
  2. What type of breast biopsy will be performed (ultrasound-guided, MRI-guided, etc.)?
  3. How should I prepare for the biopsy procedure?
  4. What are the potential risks and complications of the biopsy?
  5. How long will the biopsy procedure take and what can I expect during the procedure?
  6. Will I need any sedation or anesthesia during the biopsy?
  7. How soon will I receive the biopsy results?
  8. What are the next steps if the biopsy results show cancer or other abnormalities?
  9. What is the accuracy rate of the biopsy procedure being recommended?
  10. Are there any alternative biopsy methods available for my specific case?

Reference

Authors: Nikolaev AV, de Jong L, Zamecnik P, Groenhuis V, Siepel FJ, Stramigioli S, Hansen HHG, de Korte CL. Journal: Med Phys. 2023 Jun;50(6):3475-3489. doi: 10.1002/mp.16323. Epub 2023 Mar 17. PMID: 36879348