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Ultrasound-Guided Breast Needle Biopsy What is Ultrasound-Guided Breast Needle Biopsy? What can I expect during the procedure? How do I prepare for the procedure? What can expect after the procedure? Where is this procedure offered? Print this information. What is Ultrasound-Guided Breast Needle Biopsy? An Ultrasound-Guided Needle Biopsy of the breast is similar to the Stereotactic Biopsy. Ultrasound would be chosen over Stereotactic Biopsy in cases where the lesion is only seen with ultrasound; the position of the lesion is not adequately visualized with stereotaxis; or patient factors prevent the use of stereotactic imaging.

Definitive diagnosis is expected with both Stereotactic Breast Needle Biopsy and Ultrasound-Guided Breast Needle Biopsy.

Studies have shown the procedures to have an extremely high sensitivity and specificity which is equivalent to open-surgical biopsy. The specially designed needle guidance system has an accuracy of +/- 1 millimeter.

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What can I expect during the procedure?

During the exam, you will be lying on your back, and sound waves are utilized to image your breast and guide the needle to the precise location. Your breast is not in compression for this procedure, and there is no radiation.  <<During breast biopsy procedures, women may elect to use our virtual reality glasses or to listen to calm, relaxing music.  Women are welcome to bring their own CD's. Return to top

How do I prepare for the procedure?

• Do not take Aspirin or Aspirin derivatives for 3 days prior to your procedure
• Do not take Coumadin for 3 days prior
• Do not take Vitamin E for 3 days prior

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What can I expect after the procedure?

Following the procedure, you may have tenderness at the site of the biopsy or bruising of the skin for several days.

In almost all instances a simple Band-Aid will suffice as a dressing, and a cold pack can be used to relieve swelling or bruising.

A mild analgesic such as Tylenol also can be used to relieve any discomfort. You will be able to return to most of your normal activities following the procedure.

If you notice any bleeding, swelling, redness or heat, please call our Fort Myers/Cape Coral offices at 239.936.2316 or our Naples office at 239.430.1400 and ask for one of the radiologists or biopsy technologists.

The final results from you biopsy are usually available from your referring physician two business days following the procedure.

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Where is this procedure offered?

• Del Prado Boulevard, Cape Coral
• Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs

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