Our Summary

This study looked at the use of breast biopsy markers (BBMs) by radiologists in Australia and New Zealand. These markers are typically used during breast biopsies to mark the spot where a sample was taken. The study found that most radiologists use ultrasound, stereotactic/tomosynthesis or MRI guidance for breast biopsy. However, the use of BBMs varied depending on the method used: 97% of radiologists always used a BBM after an MRI-guided biopsy, 50% always used one after a stereotactic-guided biopsy, and only 3% always used one after an ultrasound-guided biopsy. The study also found that most radiologists used between 1 and 4 BBMs per week. This is the first study to look at how many breast biopsies radiologists perform on a regular basis.

FAQs

  1. What are breast biopsy markers (BBMs) and why are they used by radiologists?
  2. How often do radiologists use BBMs depending on the method of the biopsy?
  3. How many breast biopsies do most radiologists perform in a week according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about breast biopsy is to follow post-biopsy care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize any potential risks or complications. This may include avoiding strenuous activities for a certain period, keeping the biopsy site clean and dry, and taking any prescribed medications as directed. It’s also important to follow up with your doctor for the biopsy results and any additional recommendations for follow-up care or treatment.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a breast biopsy include those with suspicious findings on a mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI, such as a suspicious lump, changes in breast tissue, or abnormal calcifications. Additionally, patients with a personal or family history of breast cancer, as well as those with a strong family history of genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, may also be recommended for a breast biopsy. Ultimately, the decision to recommend a breast biopsy is made by a healthcare provider based on a combination of factors such as the patient’s medical history, physical exam findings, and imaging results.

Timeline

Before the breast biopsy:

  1. Patient may notice a lump or abnormality in their breast during a self-exam or routine screening.
  2. Patient consults with their healthcare provider who may order imaging tests such as a mammogram or ultrasound to further investigate the abnormality.
  3. If the imaging tests show a suspicious area, a biopsy may be recommended by the healthcare provider.
  4. Patient may undergo additional tests or consultations to prepare for the biopsy, such as blood tests or a pre-biopsy consultation with a radiologist.

During the breast biopsy:

  1. Patient arrives at the imaging center or hospital for the biopsy procedure.
  2. Patient may receive local anesthesia to numb the area where the biopsy will be performed.
  3. Radiologist uses imaging guidance (ultrasound, stereotactic, MRI) to accurately locate the suspicious area and extract a tissue sample.
  4. A breast biopsy marker may be placed at the site of the biopsy to help track the location for future reference.
  5. Patient may experience some discomfort or pressure during the procedure but should not feel significant pain.

After the breast biopsy:

  1. Patient may experience mild soreness or bruising at the biopsy site, which should resolve within a few days.
  2. Patient receives instructions on how to care for the biopsy site and when to expect results from the biopsy.
  3. Results of the biopsy are typically available within a few days to a week, and the patient will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the findings with their healthcare provider.
  4. Depending on the results of the biopsy, further treatment options may be recommended, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of breast biopsy do you recommend for me?
  2. How will the biopsy be performed and what can I expect during the procedure?
  3. Why do you think a biopsy is necessary in my case?
  4. What are the potential risks and complications of the biopsy procedure?
  5. How long will it take to get the results of the biopsy?
  6. What will the biopsy results tell us and how will they impact my treatment plan?
  7. Will I need any additional tests or procedures after the biopsy?
  8. How often do you perform breast biopsies and have you used breast biopsy markers before?
  9. How many breast biopsies do you typically perform in a week?
  10. Is there anything else I should know or consider before undergoing a breast biopsy?

Reference

Authors: Radic R, Taylor DB. Journal: J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol. 2023 Feb;67(1):20-27. doi: 10.1111/1754-9485.13451. Epub 2022 Jun 26. PMID: 35754114