Here's what you or someone you care about can expect when undergoing a breast biopsy using the MRI, x-ray, or ultrasound Mammotome® Biopsy System:
Preparation for the procedure
1. Patient positioning depends on the imaging method that is used. Under ultrasound imaging, a doctor will obtain images of the breast tissue while the patient lies on her back. In stereotactic (x-ray) procedures, the patient lies facedown on a special table. The woman's breast protrudes through a hole in the table's surface, where it is lightly compressed and immobilized while a computer produces detailed images of the abnormality. In the case of MRI imaging, the patient lies face down on a breast coil, and the coil is moved inside a magnet for a computer to acquire images.
2. The patient is given a local anesthetic (injection) to minimize any discomfort.
Biopsy Procedure with the Mammotome Biopsy System
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.
Post-operative
5. To continue to monitor your breast health following a breast biopsy using the Mammotome Biopsy System, the doctor may place a small stainless steel marker or a collagen plug with an embedded titanium marker to identify the biopsy site. 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.