Procedures

Biopsy procedure with Mammotome® Biopsy System

A breast biopsy using the Mammotome^® Biopsy System can help a doctor make a highly accurate breast cancer diagnosis without the need for open breast biopsy surgery.

Minimally invasive biopsies, such as the Mammotome Biopsy System, core needle biopsy, and fine needle aspiration (FNA), use computer-generated images to locate breast abnormalities. Computer imaging allows a breast abnormality to be clearly identified and mapped, even in its earliest stages. By accurately pinpointing and mapping the area to be biopsied, physicians can gather tissue samples (or cellular material) without making large incisions.

There are three methods for producing images in minimally invasive breast biopsies: stereotactic x-ray, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Stereotactic biopsies use mammography (x-rays); ultrasound biopsies use high-frequency sound waves; and MR biopsies use powerful magnets and radio waves to locate breast abnormalities.

With the Mammotome Biopsy System, a breast biopsy can be performed in an outpatient setting or a doctor's office under local anesthesia. Digital imaging enables the physician to guide the Mammotome probe to gently collect tissue samples through one small ¼-inch incision

This allows the doctor to make a precise analysis with minimal pain, scarring and recovery time. The entire procedure generally takes less than an hour, and patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately afterward.