Stereotactic

Here's what you can expect when undergoing a Mammotome® breast biopsy using stereotactic x-ray:
 

1. In a minimally invasive breast biopsy using stereotactic imaging, a patient lies face down on a special table with her breast protruding through a hole in the table's surface. The breast is lightly compressed to immobilize it throughout the biopsy procedure. The table is connected to a computer that produces detailed x-ray images of the abnormality to be biopsied. Using these images, the doctor guides a Mammotome biopsy probe to collect tissue specimens.
    
2. The patient is given a local anesthetic (injection) to minimize any discomfort.
    
3. Once the area to be biopsied has been located and mapped, the Mammotome probe is inserted through a small ¼-inch incision in the breast.
    
4. When the probe is positioned at the area of concern, it gently vacuums, cuts and removes tissue samples for examination. The samples are passed through the hollow chamber of the probe into a collection chamber. Because the Mammotome probe is directional, multiple specimens can be collected without having to remove and reinsert the device.
    
5. The doctor may place a small stainless steel marker or a collagen plug with an embedded titanium marker to identify the biopsy site in order to continue to monitor your breast health following a breast biopsy using the Mammotome^® Biopsy System. While this tiny marker is undetectable to the patient, it enables a physician to keep track of an abnormality in future mammograms.
    
6. The Mammotome probe is removed after the samples have been collected, and the single incision is closed with a small adhesive bandage.