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Radiology back to Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
COMMON QUESTIONS ASKED BY WOMEN RECEIVING A STEREOTACTIC BREAST BIOPSY
- Why do I need a mammotest biopsy?
You have an abnormality or lesion in the
breast, which your physician feels, needs further evaluation. The
mammotest biopsy offers less pain, is less invasive and requires less
recovery time with no significant scarring.
- How is the mammotest performed?
The mammotest procedure is performed by a
radiologist, with the help of the radiologic technologist. The
radiologist and the technologist will have studies your mammogram to
become familiar with location of the abnormality before your scheduled
appointment. The technologist will ask you to lay face down on the
table with your breast positioned through a round opening. The table
will be elevated so that the radiologist and technologist can work on the
breast beneath the table. Your breast will be compressed in a
compression paddle as used in a mammogram. A confirmation X-ray is
taken to ensure that the area of interest is centered in the paddle
window. Two stereo X-rays (X-ray taken at different angles) will be
taken of the abnormality. Once these images are obtained, the
computer will determine the exact positioning for the needle to excise
part or all of the breast abnormality.
- Will it be painful?
Local anesthetic is administered during the
procedure so as to insure little or no pain. However, as
individuals, each person has a different pain threshold.
- How long can I expect to be at the hospital?
You can expect to be at the hospital for
approximately two hours. When the procedure is complete, the
technologist will hold pressure to the area of the biopsy and a pressure
bandage will be applied. You should be able to resume your normal
activity immediately. However, we recommend that strenuous exercise
or activities be avoided for at least 24 hours. You can expect the
results of your biopsy in about two days.
Please feel free to contact our staff at (785) 452-6135 prior to your
biopsy appointment. |
