Stereotactic Breast Biopsy

The Mammotome Breast Biopsy System is a technologically advanced procedure that helps physicians acquire the necessary amount of breast tissue for an exact diagnosis. The Mammotome makes this diagnosis easier by sampling microcalcifications, the most premature signs of cancer. The Mammotome Breast Biopsy System diagnoses breast cancer when it is most treatable, catching it at its earliest stages.

Core Needle Biopsy

Core needle biopsies are non-surgical procedures during which a thin needle, guided by stereotactic imaging, uses a spring-loaded device to withdraw tissue from the breast. 10 to 20 insertions are usually necessary as only one sample is withdrawn each time the spring-loaded device is fired.

Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy

In this procedure, a thin needle is entered into a suspected site or lump, removing a small fluid or tissue sample. This type of biopsy helps a radiologist differentiate between a lump and a cyst and is an excellent way to determine the risks of existing lesions.

Vacuum-assisted Breast Biopsy

During this procedure, usually performed jointly with core needle biopsy tools, a vacuum is inserted along with the core needle, pulling breast tissue into the vacuum to improve the diagnostic accuracy. Vacuum-assisted Breast Biopsies are usually only used after microcalcifications are located via mammograms.

Open Surgical Biopsy

Until recently, most biopsies were open surgical biopsies. Using a mammogram, radiologists identify the suspected area and place a wire into it. The surgeon then uses the wire as a guide and makes a small incision into the breast, removing a golf-ball-sized portion of tissue for inspection. This procedure usually requires at least one day of recuperation for the patient.