When mammograms show abnormalities, physicians may order an ultrasound for additional evaluation. This painless imaging technique uses high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of suspicious masses.

Ultrasound Guided Needle Biopsy

In some cases, doctors may require biopsies to determine whether masses are malignant or benign. Technologists at the Breast Care Center at Good Shepherd Hospital can perform highly accurate, minimally invasive ultrasound-guided needle biopsies without surgery or radiation exposure from x-rays.

Positioning an ultrasound probe over the site of the mass, radiologists can see exactly where to obtain tissue specimens. The biopsy is performed with a local anesthetic and causes little or no discomfort. It takes about an hour, and results are usually available within a few days.

Stereotactic Biopsy

Some abnormalities require a biopsy that is mammographically guided. When this type of biopsy is needed the patients lays on a special table that has an opening for the breast. The technologist positions the patient for the radiologists and images are obtained during different stages of the biopsy to insure accuracy.

The biopsy is performed using a local anesthetic and causes little or no discomfort. The procedure takes approximately 1-1 ½ hours. This is an outpatient procedure and results are usually available in a few days.