MEDICAL Services
-What Happens During Mammography
-Screening and Diagnostic Exams
-Pre-Operative Needle Localization
-Ultrasound In The Evaluation of Breast Lumps
DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING
The Breast Diagnostic Center at the Elliot Hospital is pleased to offer stereotactic breast biopsy to our patients. Stereotactic breast biopsy can be an alternative to surgical biopsy. Obtaining tissue samples in this way leaves no significant scarring to the breast. Our Stereotactic program is fully accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR).
Why do I need a stereotactic biopsy?
When a small abnormality is seen on your mammogram, but cannot be felt by your physician, a stereotactic biopsy can be performed to localize and sample the questionable area. In this way, an accurate diagnosis may be obtained. Palpable lumps may also be biopsied by this method.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
You may have a light breakfast the morning of the biopsy. Dress comfortably, preferably in a two-piece outfit. You will be asked to change from the waist up and put on a hospital gown. You will then be asked to climb on to the stereotactic biopsy table, which is a step up, so pants or shorts are ideal.
How is the biopsy performed?
The procedure is performed in the Breast Diagnostic Center. There will be someone with you during the entire procedure. A certified mammography technologist trained in stereotactic breast biopsy will assist you and the radiologist during the procedure.
You will be on the exam table, resting comfortably on your stomach. Your breast is then positioned through an opening in the table, and compressed, somewhat like it is for a mammogram. Stereo (two) images are then taken to localize the area of interest. A computer is used to determine the exact area to biopsy.
Next, a radiologist will numb the site with a local anesthetic. He will then make a small nick in the skin, and the needle is inserted. More images are then taken to be sure that it is correctly positioned, and samples are taken.
After the sampling, additional films are taken to be certain the radiologist has obtained all of the tissue needed. Often, a small metal clip may be left in place as a marker. This would be helpful in the event that further surgery is required.
When the procedure is completed, the technologist will apply pressure to the biopsy site for five to ten minutes and then cover it with a small dressing. If a clip is placed, two mammography films will be taken after the procedure is completed.
Is the procedure painful?
The only painful sensation you may experience could be when the radiologist injects the local anesthetic or numbing medicine. You may feel a burning sensation during the injection. The local anesthetic will numb the biopsy site.
What are the chances I could have cancer?
Most biopsies – 60-80 percent- are proven to be benign. Having this procedure done can reassure you with a negative finding or make a diagnosis of cancer at an early stage, when it is most treatable.
How long will the procedure take?
In most cases, the biopsy can be performed in one hour or less. Sometimes, the area of concern is difficult to image because of the location of the biopsy site or breast size, so more time is needed.
How soon can I return to normal activity?
We recommend that strenuous activity be avoided for 24 hours.
When can I expect results from my biopsy?
Expect results within two working days after your stereotactic biopsy. The doctor ordering your exam will get the results.
Contact Information?
If you have any questions regarding this procedure please call:
Elliot Hospital
Breast Diagnostic Center
One Elliot Way
Manchester, NH 03103-3599
(603) 663-4490
Pre-Operative Needle Localization
This procedure is utilized prior to an excision biopsy of the breast. The Breast Diagnostic Center at the Elliot Hospital is pleased to offer the pre-operative needle localization procedure. This procedure is performed in the mammography department or sometimes in the ultrasound department. A tiny flexible guide wire is placed in the breast through a special needle. This will help your surgeon to locate the area in question. The surgeon performing the excision biopsy schedules these procedures.
Why do I need the Pre-Operative Needle Localization?
When an abnormality is seen on your mammogram, but cannot be felt by your physician, a pre-operative needle localization can be used to localize the questionable area. Or you may have had a recent stereotactic breast biopsy and the results have indicated that more tissue needs to be removed.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
You will be given instructions not to eat or drink after a specific time (depending on your scheduled operation time). Dress comfortably, preferably a two-piece outfit. For the pre-operative needle localization you will be asked to change from the waist up and put on a hospital gown. Please do not apply any deodorants, powder, perfume or ointment in your underarm area or anywhere on the breast in question. Residue from these products could create misleading exam results.
It is very important that your mammogram films are at the hospital either prior to the biopsy or the day of the procedure.
How is the pre-operative needle localization performed?
The procedure is done in the mammography department. The mammogram machine is utilized. There will be two mammography technologists with you, along with the radiologist performing the procedure. You will be sitting on a special chair and then positioned similar to a mammogram. The location of the questionable area will determine the approach the radiologist will take. Your breast will be held in place by a compression paddle that has a special cutout. This is very important and will not only hold your breast still for the procedure, but it will allow the radiologist to position the needle more accurately. The radiologist will numb the site with a local anesthetic. He will then advance a special needle in place. Two mammogram images will be taken to determine the placement. Once reviewed the guide wire is then advanced through the placed needle. The needle is then removed and the wire left in its place. Two final mammography films are taken and reviewed. The wire is then taped to your skin and covered with a gauze bandage.
Is the procedure painful?
You will feel pressure from the compression paddle. You may experience a burning sensation with the local anesthetic. You may also feel some pressure as the needle is being positioned. The compression is released as soon as possible.
How long will the procedure take?
We usually allow one hour of time for this procedure. Many are completed in less time; however, some areas may be more difficult to assess.
What happens after the pre-operative needle localization?
After the procedure is completed, you will be escorted to the Surgical Day Care. This is the holding area prior to your surgery.
What about the results from my biopsy?
Your surgeon will be receiving the results. You should discuss this with them.
Questions?
If you have any questions regarding this procedure please call:
Elliot Hospital
Breast Diagnostic Center (603) 663-4490
