A breast biopsy is an investigative test that is used to remove tissue or even fluid from a suspicious area in the breast. The removed tissue is then examined microscopically and further tested to check for breast cancer. A biopsy is the only definitive diagnostic procedure that can positively determine if there is cancer in the suspicious area.
What are the indications for breast biopsy ?
Whenever the breasts show some abnormalities like a doubtful solid mass, a distortion in the breast tissue structure or an area of uncharacteristic tissue change, these are indications for Breast Biopsy.
What is the procedure for breast biopsy ?
A small sample of tissue has to be removed by a simple surgical procedure and then sent to the pathology department for both testing and diagnosis of lesion.This is an outpatient procedure requiring minimal groundwork and recovery time. Breast biopsy can be performed in concordance with any of the three imaging systems, like ultrasound, X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs). Ultrasound guidance for biopsy is suitable for certain masses in the breast.The breast biopsy will be done in an outpatient setting. The entire biopsy procedure takes place in the following basic steps.
- Numbing of the breast and the lesional area with anesthetic.
- Imaging of the breast to identify the exact extent of the biopsy area.
- Then inserting a needle into the representative area of lesion in breast to retrieve the tissue samples. Multiple tissue samples will have to be collected.
- A small marker will have to be placed to identify the biopsy site.
What are the types of breast biopsy ?
- Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is a technique that utilizes a very minute needle to extract fluid or cells from the unusual area.
- Core needle (CN) is a technique that utilizes a large hollow needle to remove one sample of breast tissue in one insertion.
- Vacuum-assisted device (VAD) utilizes a vacuum powered instrument to gather multiple tissue samples through one needle insertion.
- Wire localization uses a guide wire by placing it into the suspicious area to aid the surgeon position the lesion for surgical biopsy.
What is the care to be taken after the breast biopsy procedure ?
Pressure and a small bandage will have to be applied to your breast after the biopsy for a while. It is better to apply an ice pack over the biopsy site. A compression wrap bandage may be placed on your chest to diminish swelling or bruising. Your doctor may tell you to take non-aspirin pain reliever to alleviate likely discomfort and provide detailed instructions. Mostly, women can resume normal daily activities even immediately following their procedure. Your doctor will contact you afterwards, regarding your biopsy results.
What is the use of breast biopsy ?
Breast biopsy helps in detection of breast cancer which is key for treatment of breast cancers. Early detection through regular mammograms, improved screening methods and practicing monthly self checks help in early diagnosis and treatment of breast pathology.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
