Needle Biopsy of the Breast

Needle biopsy of the breast is performed on a patient when the radiologist identifies an area of concern through mammography, breast MRI, or breast ultrasound. The procedure allows the retrieval of a sample of the breast tissue in order to confirm the presence or absence of breast disease.

We understand that a biopsy can be an emotional and stressful experience for patients. More than 80% of all breast concerns are found to be benign or non-cancerous, so this testing often provides patients with peace of mind. At Charlotte Radiology, our subspecialized radiologists and staff are trained to make this procedure as comfortable and quick as possible and to answer any questions.

Before your needle biopsy: We ask that you discontinue any Aspirin, Warfarin, Advil, or any other blood thinners for 3-5 days prior to your procedure. Please speak with your doctor prior to discontinuing any prescribed medications. Wear a 2-piece outfit with a comfortable/supportive bra the day of the appointment.

We ask that you allow 90 minutes for the appointment. After you check in, a technologist will show you to a private dressing room where you’ll change into a gown and remove all jewelry. For the procedure, the radiologist will be there to explain what to expect and answer any questions. A needle biopsy is performed with a local anesthetic to numb the breast in order to minimize any discomfort. No stitches are required, and most women can resume normal daily activity following the appointment. There will be minor physical limitations for 2 days post biopsy. An ice pack will be provided and will be applied intermittently for 4-6 hours post biopsy.

Each variation of needle biopsy is performed a bit differently:

ULTRASOUND-GUIDED BIOPSY: This procedure is used when the area of concern is visible on ultrasound. You will lie on your back or turn slightly to the side. The radiologist will use the ultrasound probe to locate the area of concern and inject local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. The radiologist will then insert the biopsy needle through a small nick in the skin and retrieve samples of tissue for evaluation. A small marking clip will be left at the site of biopsy so it can be easily located for future follow-up if surgery becomes necessary.

STEREOTACTIC BREAST BIOPSY:  Depending on the office where you are scheduled, you will either lie face down on a specialized table or sit upright in a chair.  Your breast will be positioned with compression applied, similar to a mammogram. The radiologist will inject a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort before inserting the biopsy needle through a small nick in the skin to retrieve samples of tissue for evaluation. A small marking clip will be left at the site of biopsy so it can be easily located for future follow-up if surgery becomes necessary.

MR-GUIDED BIOPSY: During an MR-guided biopsy, a local anesthetic is injected into the breast to numb it, and contrast material is given intravenously. You will lie facedown, and your breast(s) will be positioned into a cushioned opening containing a special breast-imaging coil. Using computer software, the radiologist determines the position and depth of the target for biopsy and then inserts the needle through a small nick in the skin to retrieve samples of tissue for evaluation. A small marking clip will be left at the site of biopsy so it can be easily located for future follow-up if surgery becomes necessary.

• It’s best to avoid eating a large meal immediately prior to the exam.
• Do not take aspirin or Ibuprofen for 5-7 days prior to biopsy, and please inform our staff if you are taking any blood thinners.
• Be sure to wear a two-piece outfit, as well as a supportive bra to help maintain the post-biopsy dressing.
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.

If you suffer from anxiety or claustrophobia, you may request a mild sedative from your physician to bring with you on the day of your appointment. Please call 704-831-4200 if any of the following factors apply to you so that we may make arrangements:

• Cardiac Pacemaker
• Artificial heart valve prostheses
• Aneurysm clips
• Eye implants or metal ear implants or any metal implants activated electronically, magnetically or mechanically
• Copper 7 IUD
• Shrapnel or non-removed bullet
• Pregnancy
• Weight over 350 lbs
• Claustrophobia
• Any metal puncture(s) or fragment(s) in eye

Biopsy samples are sent to a lab where they will be analyzed by a pathologist for diagnosis. Your physician and Charlotte Radiology will receive pathology reports, and you will be notified of the results within 3 to 5 business days on average (some exceptions may apply).

• Huntersville Breast Center
• Medical Center Plaza Breast Center
• Monroe Breast Center
• Morehead Medical Plaza (MMP) Breast Center
• Pineville Breast Center
• Rock Hill Breast Center
• SouthPark Breast Center
• University Breast Center

This procedure requires a physician referral. Please check with your insurance plan to confirm that the procedure is covered. You may be responsible for all or a portion of the bill.  Payment may be required at the time of service. Please call 980-233-5053 if you have questions about pricing, insurance coverage, and/or billing before your scheduled appointment.