Breast Biopsy

Dr. Waterman performs ultrasound and stereotactic (mammogram-guided) biopsies at hospitals around the region. Biopsies are often recommended after abnormal imaging or with the discovery of palpable masses in the breast. These short, outpatient procedures allow for the diagnosis of abnormalities within the breast or axilla (armpit). Generally, these are very well tolerated and there is minimal impact to your daily activities following a biopsy. 

MRI biopsies are coordinated for you at either DHMC or University of Vermont. 

What is a breast biopsy, and why is it necessary?

A breast biopsy involves removing a small sample of breast tissue or cells so a pathologist can take a closer look at it with a microscope. It is the most definitive way to determine whether an abnormal breast finding is benign (noncancerous) or cancerous.

Not every breast lump or abnormal imaging finding is cancer. Dr. Waterman may recommend a biopsy when an area has characteristics that require more than imaging alone to identify. The results can help her establish an accurate diagnosis and, if it detects cancer, determine the next steps in your treatment plan.

Dr. Waterman uses image-guided breast biopsy, which allows her to target the area of concern precisely.

What should I expect during an image-guided breast biopsy?

The specific technique used depends on which imaging study best shows the abnormality. A biopsy may be guided by ultrasound, mammography (stereotactic biopsy), or MRI.

Before your procedure, Dr. Waterman cleans the skin and numbs the area with a local anesthetic. Dr. Waterman then uses real-time imaging to guide a biopsy needle to the area of concern and collect a small tissue sample for laboratory analysis.

You may feel pressure or mild discomfort during the procedure, but she aims to work gently, quickly, and precisely to ensure you’re comfortable.

What happens after a breast biopsy?

After your breast biopsy, you may experience mild soreness, bruising, or swelling around the biopsy site. These symptoms typically improve over the following days. 

She’ll send the tissue sample to a pathology laboratory for analysis. Biopsies are analyzed like film being developed, with stains applied and allowed to mature. Results may take several days, depending on the type of testing required. Dr. Waterman will review the pathology report with you and explain what the findings mean.

If the biopsy is benign, you often return to routine breast imaging or follow-up. If the results show atypical cells or breast cancer, Dr. Waterman will discuss your diagnosis and treatment options and help develop an individualized care plan.

If you need to undergo a breast biopsy, Dr. Waterman can help you understand what to expect and answer your questions throughout the process.

Will a breast biopsy spread cancer?

This is a commonly shared concern and is often based on the idea of "tumor seeding," where cells from a sampled tumor are "planted" in another place. This concern makes sense, but is thankfully a myth disproven by decades of science. Our modern techniques of using single-use devices, image-targeted biopsies, and vacuum-assisted devices reduce this risk of tumor seeding even further. Even in cases where needle tract seeding was seen, no studies in humans or animals have shown evidence of recurrence along that tract when those subjects were followed long term. 

Schedule a biopsy consultation via the website or by calling the Green Mountain Breast Care Center office today.