Our Summary

This research paper discusses how to perform ultrasound-guided breast biopsies, particularly in difficult cases. These cases include when the target area is close to the nipple, skin, or implant, or if the target is small and situated in dense tissue. The paper suggests that modifying the usual approach can help obtain a diagnostic biopsy sample with fewer complications. After reviewing the standard techniques and equipment for these biopsies, the paper introduces and explains new methods like the open-trough and tandem-needle techniques. The researchers then present several cases where these new methods have been successfully applied.

FAQs

  1. What are some situations in which performing ultrasound-guided breast biopsies might be difficult?
  2. What new methods does this research paper introduce for conducting ultrasound-guided breast biopsies?
  3. How can modifying the usual approach to ultrasound-guided breast biopsies reduce complications?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast biopsy is to follow any pre-procedure instructions carefully, such as avoiding blood-thinning medications and fasting before the procedure. It is also important to communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider before the biopsy to ensure you are well-informed and prepared for the procedure. Additionally, it is essential to follow post-procedure care instructions, such as keeping the biopsy site clean and dry to prevent infection and monitoring for any signs of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a breast biopsy include those with abnormal mammogram results, suspicious lumps or masses detected during a physical exam, and those with symptoms such as nipple discharge or skin changes. Additionally, patients with a personal or family history of breast cancer or genetic mutations that increase the risk of breast cancer may also be recommended for a biopsy. It is important for healthcare providers to carefully evaluate each individual case and recommend a biopsy if there is a concern for breast cancer.

Timeline

Before the breast biopsy:

  1. Patient receives a referral for a breast biopsy from their healthcare provider after a suspicious lump or abnormality is found during a mammogram or clinical breast exam.
  2. Patient may undergo additional imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI to further evaluate the abnormality.
  3. Patient meets with a breast surgeon or radiologist to discuss the need for a biopsy, the procedure itself, and potential risks and benefits.
  4. Patient may undergo pre-biopsy blood tests and imaging to determine the exact location of the abnormality.

During the breast biopsy:

  1. Patient is positioned on a biopsy table, typically lying on their back or side.
  2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the biopsy site.
  3. Using ultrasound guidance, the healthcare provider inserts a needle into the breast to extract tissue samples from the suspicious area.
  4. Multiple tissue samples are usually taken to ensure accurate results.
  5. The tissue samples are sent to a pathology lab for analysis.

After the breast biopsy:

  1. Patient may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the biopsy site, which typically resolves within a few days.
  2. Results of the biopsy are typically available within a week.
  3. Patient meets with their healthcare provider to discuss the biopsy results and develop a treatment plan if necessary.
  4. If the biopsy results show cancer, the patient may undergo further testing and treatment, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
  5. Patient may require follow-up imaging or biopsies to monitor for any changes in the breast tissue.

Overall, the breast biopsy process involves a series of steps from initial evaluation to post-biopsy care, with the goal of accurately diagnosing any abnormalities in the breast tissue and providing appropriate treatment if needed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. Why do I need a breast biopsy?
  2. What are the different types of breast biopsies available?
  3. What are the risks and benefits of having a breast biopsy?
  4. How will the biopsy be performed? Will it be done under local anesthesia?
  5. How long will it take to get the results of the biopsy?
  6. What will happen if the biopsy shows that I have breast cancer?
  7. Are there any alternative tests or procedures that can provide similar information?
  8. How experienced is the doctor performing the biopsy?
  9. What should I expect during the recovery period after the biopsy?
  10. Are there any specific instructions I need to follow before or after the biopsy procedure?

Reference

Authors: Bhatt AA, Whaley DH, Lee CU. Journal: J Ultrasound Med. 2021 Jul;40(7):1427-1443. doi: 10.1002/jum.15517. Epub 2020 Sep 30. PMID: 32997819