A breast biopsy is a study that is recommended when one of our board-certified, subspecialized radiologists identifies an area of concern through a 3D mammogram, breast MRI, or breast ultrasound. A breast biopsy allows for a small breast tissue sample to be further analyzed to confirm the presence or absence of a breast abnormality.

A breast biopsy can be an emotional and stressful experience for patients. More than 80% of all breast abnormalities are found to be non-cancerous. More often than not, a breast biopsy provides patients with peace of mind moving forward. At South Jersey Radiology, our subspecialized radiologists and technologists are trained to make this study as comfortable and quick as possible, so that all the answers you need are found.

There are three different types of breast biopsies. Each breast biopsy is performed differently.

• Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy: An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is performed when the area that needs to be further studied was found on an ultrasound. During the study, you will lie on your back and turn slightly to the side. Our radiologist will use the ultrasound transducer to locate the area and inject a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. Then, our radiologist will insert a needle through a small incision in the skin and retrieve a breast tissue sample. A small biopsy clip will be left at the site of the biopsy if it needs to be easily located again for follow-up studies or procedures.
• Stereotactic Breast Biopsy: For a stereotactic breast biopsy, you will either sit upright or be positioned on your side, depending on the location of the abnormality for which the biopsy is being performed. Your breast will be positioned with slight compression, similar to a mammogram. Our radiologist will administer a local anesthetic to ensure you are comfortable before inserting the needle through a small incision. A small biopsy clip will be left at the site of the biopsy if it needs to be easily located again for follow-up studies or procedures.
• MR-Guided Breast Biopsy: During an MR-guided breast biopsy, a local anesthetic is administered to the breast to ensure you are comfortable during the study. Contrast material is given intravenously to highlight the area being examined. You will lie on your stomach, and your breasts will be positioned into a cushioned opening containing a breast imaging coil. Based on the initial images obtained, our radiologist will determine the position and depth of the area for the breast biopsy. Then, a needle is inserted through a small incision in the skin to retrieve a breast tissue sample for further evaluation. A small biopsy clip will be left at the site of the biopsy if it needs to be easily located again for follow-up studies or procedures.

Before any type of breast biopsy, it is important to follow these preparation guidelines.

• Avoid eating a large meal within three hours of your appointment.
• Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen for 5-7 days prior to your breast biopsy, and please inform your staff if you are taking any medication that could thin your blood.
• Wear comfortable and supportive clothing. Avoid wearing clothing that is a single piece and any metal accessories such as jewelry.
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment.

If you suffer from anxiety or claustrophobia, please reach out to your referring physician. A mild sedative is permitted on the day of your appointment if approved by your referring physician.

The breast tissue samples are sent to a lab where they will be analyzed by a pathologist to confirm a diagnosis. Your referring physician and South Jersey Radiology will receive pathology reports. On average, you will be notified between 3 – 5 days after your appointment.

South Jersey Radiology is in-network with 99% of health insurance providers. Our patient service representatives will work with your health insurance provider and you to ensure all requirements are discussed so the best course of action is taken. If you have questions or concerns regarding your insurance coverage, please reach out to your health insurance provider