Our Summary

This study compared two different methods of performing a breast biopsy: the upright digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT)-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB), and the prone stereotactic (PS) VABB. The research involved patients who had undergone these procedures between 2014 and 2017.

The results showed that the DBT-guided VABB was more successful in reaching more lesions (abnormal tissue or growths) compared to the PS VABB (99.3% vs 95.1%). Moreover, the DBT-guided VABB took less time (12 vs 27 minutes) and required fewer exposures (three vs 12). It was also found that the DBT-guided VABB was used more for noncalcified lesions (like distortions and asymmetries) than the PS VABB (29.2% vs 3.4%).

In other words, the upright DBT-guided VABB method was more efficient and effective in performing a breast biopsy compared to the prone stereotactic method. There were no major complications noted in either group. This suggests that the DBT-guided VABB could be a better option for patients needing a breast biopsy.

FAQs

  1. What are the two methods of performing a breast biopsy compared in this study?
  2. How does the success rate and efficiency of the upright digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT)-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB) compare to the prone stereotactic (PS) VABB?
  3. According to the study, which method is more recommended for patients needing a breast biopsy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast biopsy is to discuss with them the different methods available, such as upright digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT)-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB) versus prone stereotactic (PS) VABB. The doctor may explain that the DBT-guided VABB has been shown to be more successful in reaching lesions, taking less time, and requiring fewer exposures. They may recommend considering this method for a more efficient and effective biopsy process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a breast biopsy include those with suspicious breast abnormalities found on imaging studies such as mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs. These abnormalities may include lumps, masses, calcifications, distortions, or asymmetries. Additionally, patients with a personal or family history of breast cancer, or those with a previous biopsy showing atypical or suspicious findings, may also be recommended for a breast biopsy. Ultimately, the decision to undergo a breast biopsy is made by a healthcare provider based on the individual patient’s specific circumstances and risk factors.

Timeline

Before the breast biopsy:

  • Patient may undergo a screening mammogram which shows a suspicious area or abnormality
  • Patient may undergo additional imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI to further evaluate the area
  • Patient may meet with a radiologist to discuss the need for a biopsy and the different biopsy options available
  • Patient may schedule the biopsy procedure and receive instructions on how to prepare for it

After the breast biopsy:

  • Patient may experience some pain or discomfort at the biopsy site
  • Patient may have some bruising or swelling in the area
  • Patient may receive instructions on how to care for the biopsy site and manage any discomfort
  • Patient may need to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the biopsy results and determine the next steps in their treatment plan.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of biopsy is being recommended for me (DBT-guided VABB or PS VABB)?
  2. What are the benefits of the DBT-guided VABB over the PS VABB?
  3. How long will the procedure take?
  4. How many exposures will be needed during the procedure?
  5. What is the success rate of the DBT-guided VABB compared to the PS VABB?
  6. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with the DBT-guided VABB?
  7. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional procedures after the biopsy?
  8. How soon will I receive the results of the biopsy?
  9. What are my options for managing the results of the biopsy?
  10. Are there any alternative biopsy methods available for me to consider?

Reference

Authors: Bahl M, Maunglay M, D’Alessandro HA, Lehman CD. Journal: Radiology. 2019 Feb;290(2):298-304. doi: 10.1148/radiol.2018181788. Epub 2018 Dec 4. PMID: 30511909