Breast Ultrasound Biopsy
When you have a suspicious breast finding, our specialists use a breast ultrasound biopsy to determine if a mass is cancerous or benign. Together Women's Health Imaging Center performs ultrasound-guided breast biopsies with same-week appointments available.
What Is an Ultrasound Breast Biopsy?
An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is a minimally invasive breast biopsy that uses ultrasound guidance. We use a biopsy to determine if a mass we see within the breast is benign (noncancerous) or cancerous.
Ultrasound is an imaging tool that uses sound waves to produce images of breast tissue. A radiologist reviews these images and scans to distinguish various findings, looking for changes that may be as obvious as “masses” or as subtle as slight pulling of the tissue called “architectural distortion.” The findings on a breast ultrasound are often too small or deep to be felt on examination.
The best way for women to detect early changes in their breasts is to have regular screening mammograms, which often show areas of concern before they can be palpated during a clinical exam or breast self-examination (BSE). Further testing or a breast biopsy may be recommended if we discover a mass or architectural distortion during a screening.
When Do You Need a Breast Biopsy?
Changes in breast tissue may lead to a doctor recommending a breast biopsy. Signs that may indicate breast tissue changes can include:
Masses
Lumps
Calcifications
Abnormal tissue
When a screening or test discovers an indeterminate or suspicious finding, the radiologist may recommend a breast needle biopsy to see if the finding is benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancer). A lesion seen by ultrasound can be biopsied using ultrasound as a guide, even if it cannot be felt on clinical or self-breast examination. The physicians at Together Women’s Health Imaging Center use their extensive clinical experience to determine the need for a breast biopsy.
Using ultrasound guidance, the radiologist locates the finding recommended for biopsy, makes a small incision to insert the needle, and takes several core samples of tissue. We usually place a biopsy clip at the site of removal. This procedure is also referred to as a minimally invasive non-surgical excisional biopsy. Afterward, the biopsy sample is prepared and delivered to the Pathologist for processing and interpretation.
An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is often recommended over a stereotactic breast biopsy when the area of concern is a mass or lump that is clearly visible on ultrasound, rather than a calcification that can only be seen on a mammogram.
Lumps That Come and Go
For breast lumps that come and go with the menstrual cycle, it is reasonable for a premenopausal (before menopause) woman to observe a non-suspicious finding until after the next menstrual cycle. If the finding does not resolve after the next monthly cycle, then you should seek attention from your physician or dedicated breast imaging center. However, some women may present with serious breast complaints such as a fixed mass, skin change including thickening redness, nipple inversion, or bloody discharge is noted. If you experience any of these serious symptoms or signs, then immediate imaging workup is indicated.
What to Expect With a Breast Ultrasound Biopsy
At Together Women’s Health Imaging Center, we perform procedures on-site for your comfort and convenience. We offer ultrasound-guided breast biopsy at our Royal Oak location
Meet Our Radiologists
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Ultrasound Biopsy
We may recommend a breast biopsy if an abnormality is detected during a mammogram, ultrasound, or clinical breast exam. A biopsy is used to determine if the abnormality is cancerous or benign.
During a breast ultrasound biopsy, a small tissue sample is removed from the breast using a needle guided by ultrasound during a breast ultrasound biopsy. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia.
We begin by cleaning and numbing the area with a local anesthetic. A small incision is made, and a biopsy needle is inserted into the breast tissue. The ultrasound helps determine the precise location of the abnormality. A small tissue sample is removed and sent to a laboratory for examination.
A breast ultrasound may be recommended after a mammogram if there are any suspicious findings on the mammogram that need further evaluation. A breast ultrasound can provide more detailed images of the breast tissue and help identify abnormalities that may require additional testing or treatment.
Most patients feel only the initial pinch of the numbing injection. Once the area is anesthetized, an ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is generally well tolerated, and any soreness afterward can usually be managed with an ice pack and over-the-counter pain relief.
Most patients feel back to normal within a day or two, though mild bruising or tenderness at the biopsy site can last about a week. We recommend avoiding strenuous activity for one to two days after your procedure.
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Mammogram Screening Near Me
Looking for a breast ultrasound near you in the Royal Oak area? Together Women's Health Imaging Center is a dedicated women's imaging center offering same-week appointments for screening mammograms, diagnostic mammograms, and breast ultrasound exams; no referral required for your first mammogram.
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