How to Prepare for a Breast Biopsy
Learn the reasons that prompt a physician to recommend a breast biopsy., Learn the different types of biopsy procedures to get ready for a breast biopsy., Refrain from taking any over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin and supplements such as...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Learn the reasons that prompt a physician to recommend a breast biopsy.
You may have an abnormal mammogram or ultrasound results.
You may have thickening or lumps in your breast.
You may experience changes in the nipple such as discharge, dimpling, or crusting.
You may find change in the shape of the breast, swelling, or pain. -
Step 2: Learn the different types of biopsy procedures to get ready for a breast biopsy.
Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB):
This is a procedure in which a needle is inserted into a suspicious breast growth and fluid is withdrawn into a syringe.
A local anesthetic and/or a calming medication may be used for this type of biopsy.
The patient is usually in the sitting position.
Core needle biopsy (CNB):
This procedure uses a wide-diameter needle to withdraw samples of tissue up to .5 inches (1.27 cm) long.
Vacuum-assisted breast biopsy:
A small incision is made in the breast, and the physician uses a special instrument and imaging system to remove samples of the suspect area in the breast.
Excision (surgical) biopsy:
The doctor makes a larger incision than that used in the vacuum-assisted breast biopsy to remove a whole lump or a portion of a large lump.
General anesthesia may be used, and the incision will need to be closed with sutures or medical staples. , Tylenol products may be approved for use, but check with your doctor to be sure. , Some medications, such as the blood thinner Coumadin, may need to be stopped several weeks before the biopsy and lab tests before procedure.
Let your physician know if you have any implanted electronic devices such as a pacemaker in case the doctor will be using an MRI during the biopsy procedure. ,, Remove earrings as well. , This will give the breast support after the procedure as well as can hold an ice pack in place if recommended by the physician. , Leave all children with a responsible sitter or adult. , Side effects include bruising and swelling of the breast where the biopsy was performed, soreness and pain, infection, and bleeding. -
Step 3: Refrain from taking any over-the-counter medications
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Step 4: such as aspirin and supplements such as vitamin E
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Step 5: 7 days before the biopsy procedure.
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Step 6: Discuss any prescription medications with your physician to determine if you should keep taking them as you prepare for a biopsy.
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Step 7: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or suspect that you might be.
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Step 8: Remove any jewelry that may obstruct access to the breast such as nipple piercings and necklaces.
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Step 9: Wear a bra to your appointment.
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Step 10: Arrange to have an adult accompany you to do the driving after the procedure.
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Step 11: Learn the side effects and risks of a breast biopsy procedure so that you may identify them and have them treated as necessary.
Detailed Guide
You may have an abnormal mammogram or ultrasound results.
You may have thickening or lumps in your breast.
You may experience changes in the nipple such as discharge, dimpling, or crusting.
You may find change in the shape of the breast, swelling, or pain.
Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB):
This is a procedure in which a needle is inserted into a suspicious breast growth and fluid is withdrawn into a syringe.
A local anesthetic and/or a calming medication may be used for this type of biopsy.
The patient is usually in the sitting position.
Core needle biopsy (CNB):
This procedure uses a wide-diameter needle to withdraw samples of tissue up to .5 inches (1.27 cm) long.
Vacuum-assisted breast biopsy:
A small incision is made in the breast, and the physician uses a special instrument and imaging system to remove samples of the suspect area in the breast.
Excision (surgical) biopsy:
The doctor makes a larger incision than that used in the vacuum-assisted breast biopsy to remove a whole lump or a portion of a large lump.
General anesthesia may be used, and the incision will need to be closed with sutures or medical staples. , Tylenol products may be approved for use, but check with your doctor to be sure. , Some medications, such as the blood thinner Coumadin, may need to be stopped several weeks before the biopsy and lab tests before procedure.
Let your physician know if you have any implanted electronic devices such as a pacemaker in case the doctor will be using an MRI during the biopsy procedure. ,, Remove earrings as well. , This will give the breast support after the procedure as well as can hold an ice pack in place if recommended by the physician. , Leave all children with a responsible sitter or adult. , Side effects include bruising and swelling of the breast where the biopsy was performed, soreness and pain, infection, and bleeding.
About the Author
Denise Harris
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