Breast Biopsy Ultrasound
Department of Radiology, 319-398-6050
WHAT IT IS:
A breast biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is obtained from your breast. This tissue is obtained by means of a small needle that has been inserted into an identified area of abnormality in your breast. A breast biopsy takes 45 to 60 minutes to complete.
PREPARATION:
Patient should eat a light breakfast the morning of the procedure. Regular medications should be taken unless you are directed otherwise. If you are on blood thinning medicine, your physician should direct you to HOLD this medication for 7 days prior to the procedure. Do not take aspirin for 7 days prior to the procedure unless your physician instructs you otherwise. Come to the Mercy Women's Center about 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
PROCEDURE:
- You will be escorted to the ultrasound area where you will receive further information about your exam. Please feel free to ask questions.
- All pertinent previous mammogram or ultrasounds must be sent to be available at the time of the exam.
- Once the radiologist has discussed the procedure with you, you will be asked to sign a consent form.
- The area over the biopsy site will be cleaned and covered with a sterile drape. The skin over the biopsy site will be numbed with an anesthetic. A small, thin needle will be inserted into the biopsy area under the ultrasound guidance and a small piece of tissue withdrawn. Often it is necessary to obtain more than one sample of tissue.
- Once the biopsy is completed, a band-aid will be placed over the skin at the biopsy site. Often a small ice pack is applied to the biopsy to help minimize swelling.
AFTER YOUR BIOPSY:
- After the biopsy is complete, you will remain in the Women's Center for 10 minutes so that the nurse can observe the biopsy site.
- When you are ready to be dismissed, the nurse will discuss your discharge instructions with you and provide you with a written copy.
- Often you will be able to resume your usual activities the same day as the biopsy, but we encourage you to plan something undemanding and restful for the remainder of the day.
- The results of your biopsy will be sent to your doctor as soon as the pathology report is available, usually 1-2 days.
OUTPATIENT REGISTRATION:
Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. Park in the Mercy Medical Center Parking Ramp, located at the corner of 8th Street and 8th Avenue SE. Upon entering the hospital, proceed to Level 1 and follow the signs to “Women’s Center.”
Your appointment date and time:
