Stereotactic breast biopsy
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Stereotactic breast biopsy
Stereotactic breast biopsy uses computerized X-rays to precisely locate an area within the breast from which a tissue sample needs to be taken. This procedure is especially useful when a doctor can see calcifications or a mass in the breast on a mammogram but cannot locate it by touch.
Based on mammograms taken from two angles, computerized equipment maps the precise location of the mass or calcifications. A small incision is then made in the skin of the breast. The instrument is used to guide a needle to the exact site to collect a tissue sample for biopsy. A sample of breast tissue is removed and then examined under a microscope for signs of cancer.
Stereotactic biopsy may not be recommended for all types of breast lumps.
Credits
| Author | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Brent Shoji, MD - General Surgery |
| Last Updated | May 1, 2007 |
| Last updated: | May 01, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine, Brent Shoji, MD - General Surgery |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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