Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy
WHAT IS AN ULTRASOUND-GUIDED BREAST BIOPSY?
Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is a minor procedure. The radiologist places an ultrasound probe over the site of the breast abnormality, and using local anesthesia, guides a biopsy needle directly into the mass. Multiple tissue specimens are then taken using a hand-held biopsy device.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR THE PROCEDURE?
Although ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is minimally invasive, there is a risk ofbleeding whenever the skin is penetrated. For this reason, if you are taking aspirin, you are advised to stop 7 days before the procedure. Please inform our staff if youhave a known bleeding problem or have been taking blood thinners. If so, we will need to coordinate your biopsy with your referring physician.
A breast biopsy always raises concern about cancer, thus increasing your level of anxiety. We request that you
have a relative or a friend present to lend support, and also to drive you home afterwards.
CAN I EAT BEFORE THE PROCEDURE?
HOW LONG DOES THE PROCEDURE TAKE?
WHEN DO I GET THE RESULTS?
The tissue sample will be sent to UNC Pathology for review. A diagnosis will be available within three to four business days. If you are seen by the UNC Surgical Breast Clinic, you should obtain your results from them; otherwise, you need to contact the radiologist who performed your biopsy to obtain your results.
