For breast masses undetectable by ultrasound imaging, stereotactic biopsy is the preferred method. Stereotactic breast biopsy uses x-ray mammography to assist in locating and collecting samples of suspicious breast tissue. The risks associated with stereotactic biopsy are essentially the same as for any biopsy and mammogram. Women who are or suspect that they might be pregnant should inform the doctor or our medical staff.  If you take aspirin or blood thinners, your doctor may tell you to stop several days before the procedure.

What to Expect

Preparation for a stereotactic biopsy is essentially the same as for any biopsy. You will be given a gown to wear and asked to undress from the waist up.

For this procedure, you will lie face down on a padded table with the affected breast suspended through an opening in the table, where it is compressed and held firmly in place by two clear plastic paddles. The radiologist operates from beneath the table which has been elevated several feet, allowing him/her to sit under it. Guided by mammographic x-ray images to determine the exact location of the tissue mass, the radiologist makes a small cut into the breast, inserts the biopsy needle and obtains a sample. Once an adequate sampling of tissue has been acquired, the radiologist removes the needle and applies a dressing to the biopsy site. The entire procedure takes between 30 minutes and an hour. The doctor or staff will instruct you regarding aftercare.