Needle Breast Biopsy
Imaging techniques play an important role in helping doctors perform breast biopsies, especially of abnormal areas that cannot be felt but can be seen on a mammogram or with ultrasound. A needle breast biopsy is performed using imaging as a guide to remove suspicious tissue through a hollow needle. Following local anesthesia, the biopsy needle is then inserted into the breast and tissue samples are obtained. These are sent to the pathologist for microscopic examination.
Stereotactic Breast Biopsy The stereotactic-guided biopsy involves finding the precise location of the abnormal area in three dimensions using digital mammography. “Stereotactic” refers to the use of a computer and scanning devices to create three-dimensional images. Biopsy procedures are primarily done in the Fayetteville and Bentonville locations.
Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy Solid breast masses may undergo biopsy (tissue sampling) using ultrasound guided needle biopsy. The procedure uses ultrasound as a guide for the radiologist to obtain small samples of suspicious breast tissue. Fluid-filled cysts may also be drained using ultrasound guidance using a small needle to withdraw the fluid.
The Breast Center has been awarded accreditation in stereotactic, ultrasound, and MRI breast biopsy as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR gold accreditation seal represents the highest image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed.
Breast MRI – Guided Biopsy Some breast abnormalities are seen only using MRI imaging. Breast MRI-Guided Biopsy is as reliable as open surgery for acquiring tissue samples that offer definitive pathological results. The Breast Center is accredited by the American College of Radiology for MRI studies and biopsies.
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