Vacuum Assisted Biopsy FAQs
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- We ask that you refrain from using deodorant, antiperspirant, talcum powder, perfume or lotions, as this can interfere with the quality of the images.
- You may need to provide us with your previous mammograms and breast ultrasound images. If you had these exams with us, we will already have your images stored.
- Because the procedure may cause some localised bleeding, it is important that you let us know if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking any medication to thin the blood e.g. warfarin.
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Your technician will explain exactly what will happen during your procedure. It may vary slightly from what we describe below, so don’t worry if this is the case, you’ll always be in very good hands.
At the start of your appointment, the area of concern in your breast is identified using imaging, such as a mammogram.
Once the area is located, the skin is cleaned with antiseptic. A local anaesthetic will be administered to help numb the area and minimise any pain. Discomfort is usually minimal.
A small cut is made in the skin, and a biopsy needle is inserted. Using a vacuum-powered instrument samples are extracted from the breast. This technique allows the rotation of the needle to collect multiple tissue samples.
You may feel slight discomfort or a tugging sensation but it is not usually painful because of the local anaesthetic.
If X-ray guidance is used, you will be positioned either sitting or lying on your side. The breast is then compressed much like a mammogram.
After the samples have been taken, the biopsy area will be pressed on firmly for a few minutes to reduce bruising and bleeding, and then covered with a dressing.
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A vacuum assisted biopsy typically takes between one to one and a half hours to complete.
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After a vacuum assisted breast biopsy, we often give patients a small ice pack – this can be refrozen and reapplied when you get home. The area that has been biopsied may feel a little tender for several days and there is usually some bruising.
The dressing applied during the procedure is waterproof and should be kept on for two days. You can shower with it, but strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for 48 hours to allow the area to heal.
The tissue samples are immediately sent to a pathologist after the procedure. The pathologist will then examine the small tissue samples and determine whether they represent normal or abnormal tissue. The pathologist is generally able to issue a report on the tissue samples within 48 hours.
A copy of the report is sent to Queensland X-Ray and to your doctor.
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A vacuum assisted biopsy is a very safe procedure but like all medical procedures, breast biopsies do carry some risks.
We generally like to monitor patients for 15-20 minutes immediately following the biopsy while the report is being organised. If, during this time you notice further bleeding, further pressure and intervention will be organised.
In rare cases, the bleeding may cause a lump called a hematoma, which may take up to six weeks to resolve. There is no permanent damage to the breast after this occurrence.
There is a very small chance of infection, which is minimised by performing the procedure under sterile conditions.
Very rarely, if the biopsy involves tissue deep in the breast, there is a slight chance of the needle passing through the chest wall, which could lead to air around the lung. This rare complication is called a pneumothorax.
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Our skilled team use advanced imaging technology to guide the biopsy and ensure accurate, high-quality results.
How much will it cost?
Fees for radiology procedures will vary depending on a variety of factors. We will advise you about the cost of your service at the time of booking but if you do have any questions, contact us and one of our team will be happy to help with your query. You can read more about our billing information here.
How do I access my images?
At Queensland X-Ray, we provide our patients with their images and results online. To access your images and results, you’ll need to register for an account when you visit one of our practices. If you’ve already registered, you can access the Patient Portal here.