​What is a core needle biopsy?

A core needle biopsy is a method of obtaining tissue samples of a lesion through a needle. They allow samples to be taken in a relatively quick and easy manner in an out-patient clinic for diagnosis.

Advanatages of core biopsies

The main advantages to having a core biopsy are:

• it allows patients with benign lesions (non-cancerous) to avoid surgery which has slightly greater risks.
• it provides the surgeon with information to better plan your surgery if the lesion is breast cancer (or another disease) and arrange for additional treatments.

Core biopsies allow small tissue samples to be taken in an outpatient setting. An appointment usually takes only one hour.

Special preparations?

If you are allergic to titanium, inform your doctor and radiologist. Also let the radiologist know if you are on prescribed blood thinners prior to your procedure. Otherwise there are no special preparations necessary and you may eat and take your medications as normal.

How is a core biopsy performed?

Your biopsy may be done under ultrasound guidance or mammographic guidance depending on which method your radiologist believes is best for you. You remain awake during the biopsy but will not feel any pain. The radiologist will explain the procedure, answer questions and obtain your consent prior to the start of the procedure.

Ultrasound guidance

• A sonographer will perform a preliminary scan to find the lesion for the radiologist.

• Your skin will be cleansed and local anesthetic will be given to numb the area. The radiologist will make a very small incision in your breast to make it easier to insert the needle.

• Ultrasound is used to ensure the right position of the needle. Five samples are usually taken but this can vary. You will hear a snapping sound as the sample is taken. You will be warned to expect the sound.

• At the completion of the biopsy, the radiologist may leave a sterile titanium metal marker in your breast to mark the biopsy site for possible future surgery. This marker is safe and won't affect your health.

• If a marker was placed, a mammogram may be done to review its appearance and location.

• At the end of the procedure, some firm pressure will be placed over the site to stop any bleeding. Sterile tapes will likely be placed over the cut to aid with healing and minimize scarring. An ice pack will be sent home with you to minimize swelling.
  

Mammography guidance

• This method is best for abnormalities seen only by mammography. A special table is used and you will be asked to lie on your stomach. This table has an opening in it for the breast. Your breast will be compressed, but not as tightly as a regular mammogram. Images from two angles will be taken to find the exact location of the lesion.

• Your skin will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution, and local anesthetic will be given to numb the area. The radiologist will make a very small incision in your breast to make it easier to insert the needle. You will hear a snapping sound as the needle is inserted. You will be warned to expect the sound. Images are taken to ensure proper needle placement.

• The biopsy apparatus uses a slight vacuum to draw in the samples. You will hear a buzzing. The biopsy itself only lasts about a minute and a number of samples are taken.

• Following the biopsy, the radiologist may leave a sterile titanium metal marker in your breast to mark the biopsy site for possible future surgery. This marker is safe and won't affect your health.

• If a marker was placed, a mammogram may be done to review its appearance and location.

• At the end of the procedure, some firm pressure will be placed over the site to stop any bleeding. Sterile tapes will likely be placed over the cut to aid with healing and minimize scarring. An ice pack will be sent home with you to minimize swelling.

What happens to the metal marker?

The titanium marker will remain in your breast if the lesion is benign and you do not require surgery. The marker will not cause you to set off any alarms when going through metal detectors and it will not prevent you from having an MRI scan if you should require one in the future.

What can I expect after the biopsy?

Following your biopsy, take it easy for the next 48 hours. This means no heavy lifting or physical exertion. We recommend you plan to take the day off work and possibly the next day depending on your job. This will help prevent bleeding or discomfort. There may be a bit of bleeding on the day of the biopsy but this should be manageable by sitting or lying still and applying firm pressure for a few minutes.

Results typically take two weeks. They will be sent to your physician or surgeon.

Questions 

If you have questions or concerns, contact the Breast Health Centre at 306-655-8686. Our office is open Monday to Friday. 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.