We offer Procedures like:
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)
The FNA procedure is particularly beneficial in distinguishing cysts from solid masses and is usually recommended for the aspiration of fluid-filled lumps.
The procedure is performed under ultrasound by the Radiologist, with the sonographer assisting.
Under ultrasound guidance a local anaesthetic may be injected just under the skin surface to numb the area.
The Radiologist will then insert a fine gauge needle into the area for biopsy and aspirate the fluid.
Depending on the circumstances, the aspirated fluid may be sent for pathology analysis.
Core Biopsy
A core biopsy may be used for the assessment of a breast lump that may have been noted during a routine clinical breast exam with your doctor or that is visible on the mammogram or ultrasound.
The procedure can be performed under ultrasound or mammographic guidance by the Radiologist, with the sonographer assisting.
A local anaesthetic will be injected just under the skin surface to numb the area.
The Radiologist will make a small incision in the skin to allow the core needle to pass through.
Under image guidance, the core needle is guided into the lesion and small cores of tissue from the region of interest are obtained.
The specimen will be sent to pathology for analysis.
Percutaneous Breast Biopsy (Stereotactic Breast Biopsy)
This type of biopsy uses mammograms to specifically target the lesion of interest.
May be recommended by the Radiologist if there is an abnormal area observed on the mammogram, such as calcifications or a lump.
This procedure can be performed sitting up or lying down, with the breast under compression and usually takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Images of the region of interest will be acquired prior to the biopsy to allow the Radiologist to target the area.
The Radiologist will inject a local anaesthetic just under the skin surface to numb the area, followed by a deeper injection of anaesthetic to numb the biopsy site.
The Radiologist will make a small incision in the skin to allow the vacuum needle to pass through.
The vacuum needle will rotate through the target area, obtaining small cores of tissue to be assessed.
Further imaging will be acquired throughout this procedure to ensure the target area has been sampled adequately.
A small titanium marker may be placed in the breast at the biopsy site. This provides a guide if surgical intervention is required or for reference with future imaging.
Post-imaging mammograms may be performed if a titanium marker was inserted in the breast.
The specimen will be sent to pathology for analysis.
Wire Guided Excision Biopsy
A wire guided biopsy or hookwire may be recommended if there is an abnormal area observed on the mammogram or ultrasound that cannot be easily felt and requires to be removed.
The wire acts as a marker for the surgeon to locate the abnormal breast tissue.
The procedure can be performed under ultrasound, mammographic or MRI guidance by the Radiologist.
The Radiologist will inject a local anaesthetic just under the skin surface to numb the area, followed by a deeper injection of anaesthetic to numb the biopsy site.
The Radiologist will pass the fine wire through the breast tissue to the abnormal area, where the hook will be deployed to secure the wire in place.
On the same day or the next day, the abnormal tissue and wire will be surgically removed under general anaesthesia.
The specimen will be sent to pathology for analysis.
FAQs
How do I prepare for my breast biopsy?
It is important to not wear any deodorant, talcum powder or lotions prior to your breast biopsy as these may affect image quality and can have the ability to mimic pathology.
A two-piece outfit is recommended, were possible, for comfortability during the examination process. Gowns can also be provided for comfort and ease.
How long will my procedure last?
This will depend on the procedure you are having. At Brisbane Radiology we recommend that you give yourself 1 to 2 hours of free time for your biopsy appointment.
What happens after my breast biopsy?
If you are in good health and feeling well, you will be permitted to return home.
However, in some instances, you might be asked to stay for an observation period to ensure you are well.
Our Breast Health Imaging Services
Cone Beam Breast CT Mammogram – Coming Soon
Breast MRI
Breast Interventional Procedures
Mammography
