Women's Center

BAPTIST HEALTH Breast Center

Ultrasound Core Biopsy

This is a type of needle biopsy used to evaluate solid abnormalities seen on ultrasound. It is a less invasive alternative to surgical biopsy for most patients with an ultrasound abnormality. Ultrasound core biopsy is performed on an outpatient basis in the Breast Center.

Before the procedure:

• Patients should avoid aspirin, Advil, Motrin, Aleve, ibuprofen and similar medications for five days prior to the procedure as these medications can cause bleeding. Tylenol does not increase the risk of bleeding and is the preferred medication for pain during the five days preceding the procedure.
• Any patient taking coumadin, heparin or other blood thinning medicine should speak with one of our nurses or physicians prior to scheduling the procedure.
• On the day of the procedure, the patient should wear a comfortable two-piece outfit, and a bra that can provide support.

During the procedure:

• The patient lies on her back on a stretcher and the area is identified with ultrasound. The skin is cleansed to avoid infection and the breast is numbed with local anesthetic. A hollow needle is placed into the breast next to the abnormality. The doctor removes several samples of the abnormality to send to the lab.
• The procedure is usually painless aside from slight discomfort as the anesthetic is given. A nurse is present with the patient throughout the procedure to provide support and information. The biopsy usually takes fifteen to twenty minutes, but we usually allow one hour total time for the patient to spend in the Breast Center for registration, pre-assessment and post-biopsy care.

After the procedure:

• Pressure and ice are applied to the biopsy site to reduce bruising. A small bandage is applied and the patient goes home with ice and written follow-up instructions.
• The patient may drive herself home and may return to work if she desires.
• We ask that for 24 hours following the procedure the patient avoid lifting objects more than 10lbs and avoid vigorous physical activity, such as aerobics.
• The patient should keep the biopsy site clean and dry for 24 hours following the procedure, avoiding swimming or showering. A sponge bath or tub bath without wetting the biopsy site is fine.

Results:

• Results are usually available in one to two days.
• If results are benign we routinely follow the area again in one year.
• If there are any suspicious findings on pathology, surgery will be required to remove more tissue from the area.