Slide 1
What you need to know about a breast biopsy
Slide 2:
What is a breast biopsy?
A breast biopsy is a procedure that removes a small amount of tissue and examines it for cancer if something looks suspicious or is found in your breast during the screening test.
8 out of 10 breast biopsies are negative, but it is important to check.
Slide 3:
What happens during a breast biopsy?
A breast surgeon or radiologist will collect tissue and analyze it for abnormal cells.
There are three ways to do this:
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Fine needle aspiration
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Core needle biopsy
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Surgery
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Incisional: removes tissue or part of a lump.
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Excisional: Removes an entire lump or suspicious area.
Slide 4:
Fine needle aspiration
A fine needle with an attached syringe is inserted into the lump to collect cells or fluid to evaluate the lump.
Outpatient procedure in a healthcare provider’s office.
Slide 5:
Core needle biopsy
Once the area has been numbed, a long, hollow needle is guided into the lump.
Requires more tissue than fine needle aspiration.
Usually assisted by a mammogram, MRI or ultrasound.
Outpatient procedure in a healthcare provider’s office.
Slide 6:
Surgical biopsy
Surgical tools are used to remove tissue, part of a lump, or an entire lump.
Performed when a needle biopsy:
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I can’t reach the dough
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Not enough tissue can be removed
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Previously produced unclear results
It is performed in an operating room or procedure room using general anesthesia.
Slide 7:
What are markers or clips?
During a biopsy, sesame seed-sized markers made of titanium or stainless steel are inserted into the breast and remain there to pinpoint the precise location of a lump and allow doctors to look at the affected area.
It cannot be sensed and does not set off metal detectors.
Slide 8:
Questions to ask your doctor before your biopsy
What type of biopsy will I have?
How long does a breast biopsy take?
Will the biopsy leave a scar?
Will you remove the entire lump?
Will I be awake?
How soon can I resume my usual activities?
When will I receive the results?
Slide 9:
Tips to minimize pain
Wear a bra and a button-down shirt to the appointment. Using ice packs in your bra afterward can minimize discomfort and reduce swelling.
Breathing and visualization can help reduce pain during the procedure.
Slide 10:
During recovery
Follow your healthcare provider’s care instructions.
Expect bruising, swelling, and/or tenderness for up to a couple of weeks.
Take a mild pain reliever such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen.
Wait to resume your normal activities until the next day.
Results may take from several hours to several days.
This educational resource was created with the support of Daiichi Sankyo and Hologic.
