Our Summary

The research paper is about how the time taken to perform a breast biopsy can differ between different groups of patients, specifically those with serious mental illnesses (SMI) and those without. The researchers were particularly interested in the patients who were insured by public payers and were under 65 years of age.

Before August 2017, the center where the research was conducted would schedule biopsies on a different day than the one they were recommended. The researchers found that fewer patients with SMI had their biopsies on the same day as they were recommended, compared to those without SMI. This was even more pronounced in the subgroup of patients with SMI who were insured by public payers.

However, after August 2017, the center started performing biopsies on the same day they were recommended. The researchers found that this change eliminated the difference in time to biopsy between the two groups. In other words, patients with or without SMI were equally likely to have their biopsies on the same day they were recommended. The overall percentage of patients who had their biopsies on the same day also increased.

In simpler terms, the study found that offering same-day biopsies can help reduce the time taken to perform biopsies, especially for patients with serious mental illnesses. This helps to improve the equality of care for these patients.

FAQs

  1. What was the main focus of this research paper on breast biopsy?
  2. How did the change in biopsy scheduling affect the time taken to perform biopsies for patients with serious mental illnesses?
  3. Did the introduction of same-day biopsies improve the equality of care for patients with and without serious mental illnesses?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast biopsy is to ask about the possibility of scheduling a same-day biopsy, as this can help reduce the time taken to perform the procedure and ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended breast biopsy include those with suspicious findings on mammograms or other imaging tests, those with a lump or mass in the breast, those with nipple discharge, and those with other symptoms that may indicate breast cancer or other breast abnormalities. It is important for these patients to undergo a biopsy in order to accurately diagnose any potential issues and determine the best course of treatment.

Timeline

Before the biopsy:

  • Patient receives a recommendation for a breast biopsy
  • Patient schedules the biopsy appointment
  • Patient may have to wait for a few days or weeks before the actual biopsy date

After the biopsy:

  • Patient arrives at the center on the scheduled day
  • Biopsy procedure is performed
  • Patient receives post-operative care and instructions
  • Patient may need to wait for biopsy results

After the research findings:

  • Center starts offering same-day biopsies for all patients
  • Patients with serious mental illnesses and those without are equally likely to have their biopsies on the same day they are recommended
  • Overall percentage of patients having same-day biopsies increases
  • Time taken to perform biopsies is reduced for all patients, improving equality of care

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What is the purpose of the biopsy and why is it necessary?
  2. What type of biopsy will be performed and how is it done?
  3. Are there any risks or potential complications associated with the biopsy procedure?
  4. How long will it take to get the results of the biopsy?
  5. What will happen after the biopsy results are available?
  6. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional tests after the biopsy?
  7. How can I prepare for the biopsy procedure?
  8. Are there any restrictions or limitations I should be aware of before or after the biopsy?
  9. Will I experience any pain or discomfort during or after the biopsy?
  10. How will the biopsy results impact my treatment plan moving forward?

Reference

Authors: Wang GX, Hwong AR, Mercaldo SF, Lehman CD, Dontchos BN. Journal: J Am Coll Radiol. 2022 Jan;19(1 Pt B):146-154. doi: 10.1016/j.jacr.2021.09.009. PMID: 35033303