Our Summary

A team of healthcare providers and simulation specialists developed a low-cost model of a human breast using medical-grade gelatin, Jell-O, water, olives, and surgical gloves. The model, which costs about $4.40 to make, was used to teach students how to perform ultrasound-guided breast biopsies. The team tested the model by training 30 students during their junior surgical clerkship.

Before the training, only 4% of the students felt confident about performing biopsies under minimal supervision. After the training, this number rose to 75%. All of the students said that the training session increased their knowledge, and 71% of them believed that the gelatin model was a good substitute for a real human breast.

These results suggest that this low-cost gelatin-based model can effectively boost students’ confidence and knowledge about performing ultrasound-guided breast biopsies. This cheap and innovative simulation model could be especially useful in low- and middle-income settings.

FAQs

  1. How was the low-cost model of a human breast developed?
  2. How effective was the gelatin-based model in boosting students’ confidence and knowledge about performing ultrasound-guided breast biopsies?
  3. Could this low-cost and innovative simulation model be useful in low- and middle-income settings?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast biopsy is to ask for detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, such as any dietary restrictions or medications to avoid beforehand. Additionally, the doctor may recommend wearing loose-fitting clothing on the day of the biopsy to ensure comfort during the procedure. It is also important to follow any post-biopsy care instructions provided by the healthcare team to ensure proper healing and recovery.

Suitable For

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

  1. Suspicious findings on a mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI
  2. Abnormalities felt during a physical breast exam
  3. Unexplained breast pain or nipple discharge
  4. Family history of breast cancer or other risk factors
  5. Previous history of breast cancer or high-risk lesions
  6. Personal history of genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2)
  7. Monitoring for changes in a known benign breast condition

It is important to note that each patient is unique, and the decision to recommend a breast biopsy should be made by a healthcare provider based on the individual’s specific circumstances and risk factors.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline of what a patient experiences before and after a breast biopsy can be summarized as follows:

Before the biopsy:

  • Patient may notice a lump or abnormality in their breast during a self-exam or through a routine screening mammogram.
  • Patient visits their healthcare provider who may recommend a biopsy based on the findings.
  • Patient undergoes imaging tests such as a mammogram or ultrasound to locate the abnormality.
  • Patient may have a consultation with a specialist to discuss the biopsy procedure and potential risks.
  • Patient may undergo additional tests or procedures to prepare for the biopsy.

During the biopsy:

  • Patient is given local anesthesia to numb the area where the biopsy will be performed.
  • A small incision is made in the skin, and a needle or surgical tool is used to remove a sample of tissue from the breast.
  • The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis to determine if the tissue is cancerous or benign.

After the biopsy:

  • Patient may experience some pain or discomfort at the biopsy site, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
  • Patient may have some bruising or swelling in the area where the biopsy was performed.
  • Patient receives the results of the biopsy from their healthcare provider, who will discuss the findings and recommend further treatment if necessary.
  • Patient may undergo additional tests or procedures based on the results of the biopsy.

Overall, the experience of undergoing a breast biopsy can be a stressful and anxiety-provoking time for patients. However, with the support of their healthcare team and access to innovative training tools such as the gelatin-based model, patients can feel more confident and informed throughout the process.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about breast biopsy include:

  1. Why is a biopsy necessary in my case?
  2. What type of biopsy will be performed?
  3. How will the biopsy be conducted?
  4. Are there any risks or side effects associated with the biopsy procedure?
  5. How long will it take to get the biopsy results?
  6. What will happen after the biopsy results are available?
  7. Are there any alternative tests or procedures that can be considered instead of a biopsy?
  8. Will the biopsy be painful, and will I need any anesthesia?
  9. How should I prepare for the biopsy procedure?
  10. What follow-up care will be required after the biopsy is completed?

Reference

Authors: Hey MT, Masimbi O, Shimelash N, Alayande BT, Forbes C, Twizeyimana J, Nimbabazi O, Giannarikas P, Hamzah R, Eyre A, Riviello R, Bekele A, Anderson GA. Journal: World J Surg. 2023 Sep;47(9):2169-2177. doi: 10.1007/s00268-023-07038-w. Epub 2023 May 8. PMID: 37156884