Our Summary

This study examined how long it typically took for patients to get diagnostic imaging and biopsies after an abnormal mammogram. Data was collected from hundreds of breast centers across the US, representing millions of patients, between 2005 and 2019. The researchers found that, on average, it took about a week to get diagnostic imaging after an abnormal mammogram, and another week to get a biopsy after the imaging. The time it took for these procedures decreased over the study period, with the biggest improvements in centers that originally took the longest. Centers that only do screenings and centers in the Midwest and metropolitan areas had shorter wait times. The researchers suggest that keeping track of and comparing these times could help improve the quality of breast care.

FAQs

  1. How long does it typically take to get diagnostic imaging after an abnormal mammogram?
  2. How long does it typically take to get a biopsy after diagnostic imaging?
  3. Did the time it took for these procedures change over the course of the study period?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing a breast biopsy to make sure to follow any pre-procedure instructions given by the medical team. This could include avoiding certain medications, eating or drinking before the procedure, or other specific guidelines to ensure the biopsy is successful and accurate. It is important for the patient to communicate any concerns or questions they may have with their healthcare provider before the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a breast biopsy include those with abnormal findings on a mammogram, such as suspicious lumps or masses, changes in breast tissue density, or other concerning symptoms. Additionally, patients with a personal or family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations that increase the risk of breast cancer (such as BRCA mutations), or a previous history of breast cancer may also be recommended for a biopsy. Ultimately, the decision to recommend a breast biopsy is based on a combination of factors including the patient’s medical history, physical examination findings, and imaging results.

Timeline

Before breast biopsy:

  1. Patient receives an abnormal mammogram result.
  2. Patient is scheduled for diagnostic imaging (typically within a week).
  3. Patient undergoes diagnostic imaging (such as ultrasound or MRI).
  4. Based on the imaging results, patient is scheduled for a biopsy (typically within a week).

After breast biopsy:

  1. Patient undergoes breast biopsy procedure.
  2. A sample of breast tissue is taken for further analysis.
  3. Pathology report is generated to determine if the tissue is benign or malignant.
  4. Patient receives results and discusses next steps with their healthcare provider.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of biopsy will be performed and why is it recommended?
  2. How will the biopsy be performed and what can I expect during the procedure?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the biopsy?
  4. How long will it take to receive the biopsy results?
  5. What are the possible outcomes of the biopsy results and what further steps may be necessary?
  6. Are there any alternative options to biopsy that could be considered?
  7. How experienced is the healthcare provider performing the biopsy?
  8. Are there any specific instructions I need to follow before or after the biopsy procedure?
  9. How can I best prepare myself emotionally and physically for the biopsy?
  10. Are there any support resources available to me during this process?

Reference

Authors: Donovan CA, Kaufman CS, Thomas KA, Polat AK, Thomas M, Mack B, Gilbert A, Sarantou T. Journal: Ann Surg Oncol. 2023 Oct;30(10):6070-6078. doi: 10.1245/s10434-023-13905-6. Epub 2023 Aug 1. PMID: 37528305