Core Needle Breast Biopsy

A core needle breast biopsy is performed to evaluate breast abnormalities. Although similar to a fine-needle biopsy, a core needle biopsy removes tissue rather than just cells. Through microscopic analysis of this tissue, a determination can be made as to whether or not a malignancy is present.

Reasons For Core Needle Breast Biopsy

When an unexplained lump in breast tissue is found, or when an unusual mark or mass shows up on a mammogram or during an ultrasound exam, a core needle biopsy may be performed to determine whether the lump is benign or malignant. Each year, more than a million women in the United States undergo this procedure. Seventy to eighty percent of them find that the abnormalities palpated or viewed are benign. Still, because 20 to 30 percent of these biopsies result in the discovery of a malignancy, the procedure is worthwhile. Although it happens rarely, men, as well as women, may be diagnosed with breast cancer.

Core Needle Breast Biopsy Procedure

As with other breast biopsies, a core needle biopsy is usually administered by a radiologist or a surgeon. Core needle biopsy is a reliable way of determining whether or not a breast abnormality is cancerous. Core needle biopsies are minimally invasive, causing very little discomfort for most patients and leaving no disfigurement. A core needle biopsy is performed under local anesthesia. A core needle breast biopsy involves the following:

Tissue Analysis

The tissue sample is then sent to a pathology lab for evaluation. The lab issues a pathology report that includes details such as the abnormal tissue’s specific location, whether or not there is cancerous tissue present, and the chemical makeup of the tissue extracted.

Recovery From A Core Needle Breast Biopsy

Recovery from a core needle biopsy is rapid. The patient is advised to rest for the remainder of the day. Normal activities may be resumed the following day. There may be some bruising and discomfort, for which the following treatments are recommended:

• Ice pack application
• Rest
• Over-the-counter painkillers