Our Summary

This research paper looks at how the management of breast diseases has improved with the help of needle biopsy interventions, a technique used for diagnosing diseases. Over the past 30 years, this method has advanced from fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB), where a thin needle draws out fluid or tissue, to vacuum assisted biopsy (VAB), which uses a vacuum to collect more tissue.

While FNAB still has a role in diagnosing breast diseases, there is a growing preference for using automated core needle biopsies (CNB) and VAB. These methods are better at distinguishing between different types of diseases and understanding the specifics of tumor markers, which can help in planning drug treatments.

VAB is more effective than CNB as it can collect larger tissue samples. The paper also talks about how VAB is increasingly being used not just for diagnosis, but also to remove breast lesions.

FAQs

  1. What is needle biopsy and how is it used in managing breast diseases?
  2. What are the advancements in needle biopsy techniques over the past 30 years?
  3. How are vacuum assisted biopsy (VAB) and automated core needle biopsies (CNB) different, and why is VAB considered more effective?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may advise a patient undergoing a breast biopsy to wear a comfortable top with easy access to the breast area for the procedure. They may also recommend avoiding aspirin or blood thinners before the biopsy to reduce the risk of bleeding. It’s important for the patient to follow any pre-procedure instructions given by the doctor to ensure a successful and safe biopsy. Additionally, the doctor may inform the patient about the potential risks and benefits of the biopsy procedure and discuss the results and next steps once the biopsy is completed.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a breast biopsy include those with suspicious breast lumps or masses, abnormal mammogram or ultrasound findings, nipple discharge, changes in breast skin or shape, or a personal or family history of breast cancer. Additionally, patients with a history of previous breast biopsies showing atypical or suspicious findings may also be recommended for a repeat biopsy. Overall, breast biopsies are recommended for patients who require further evaluation for breast cancer or other breast diseases.

Timeline

Before a breast biopsy, a patient may experience symptoms such as a lump in the breast, changes in breast shape or size, nipple discharge, or skin changes on the breast. The patient may undergo a physical examination, mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI to determine if a biopsy is necessary.

During the biopsy procedure, the patient will be given local anesthesia to numb the area. A small incision is made in the skin, and a needle is inserted to collect tissue samples. The patient may feel pressure or a slight discomfort during the procedure.

After the biopsy, the patient may experience some bruising, swelling, or tenderness at the biopsy site. It is important for the patient to follow post-biopsy care instructions, such as avoiding strenuous activities and taking pain medication as needed. The tissue samples will be sent to a lab for analysis, and the results will be communicated to the patient by their healthcare provider. Depending on the results, further treatment may be recommended.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of biopsy procedure will be performed and why?

  2. How long will the procedure take and what can I expect during and after the biopsy?

  3. Is there any preparation I need to do before the biopsy?

  4. Will I need anesthesia for the procedure?

  5. What are the potential risks or complications associated with the biopsy?

  6. When will I receive the results of the biopsy and how will they be communicated to me?

  7. What will the biopsy results tell us about my condition and what further steps may be necessary?

  8. Will I need additional imaging or testing after the biopsy?

  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the biopsy?

  10. Are there alternative options to biopsy that I should consider or discuss with you?

Reference

Authors: Bennett IC, Saboo A. Journal: World J Surg. 2019 Apr;43(4):1054-1061. doi: 10.1007/s00268-018-04892-x. PMID: 30617562