Breast Biopsy

At Greig Associates we perform two types of Breast Biopsies; Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) and Ultrasound Guided Core Biopsies.We do not perform Stereotactic Core Biopsies. These are done at the BC Cancer Agency.

This is the simplest type of Breast Biopsy and may be used to evaluate a lump that can be felt during a clinical breast exam. For the procedure, you lie on a table. While steadying the lump with one hand, the Radiologist uses the other hand to direct a very thin needle into the lump. The needle is attached to a syringe that can collect a sample of cells or fluid from the lump. Fine Needle Aspiration is a quick way to distinguish between a fluid-filled cyst and a solid mass. It may avoid the need for a Core Biopsy. If, however, the mass is solid, a tissue sample will be obtained.

This type of Breast Biopsy may be used to assess a breast lump or abnormality that’s visible on a Mammogram or Ultrasound or that your Doctor feels (palpates) during a clinical breast exam. During this procedure, you lie on your back or side on an Ultrasound table. Holding the Ultrasound device (transducer) against your breast, the Radiologist locates the mass within your breast, makes a small incision to insert a thin, hollow needle and takes several core samples of tissue to be sent to a lab for analysis.

A Clip is a tiny metallic biopsy marker clip that is inserted to localize (mark) the lesion in the event it is difficult to find in the future. These clips are very small and can not be felt once they are placed. They are made of titanium and do not react to the body or trigger metal detectors at the airport. If a Clip is placed, then it is standard care to document the clip with two Mammogram images after the Biopsy (on the same day). We have a sample Clip which we can show you before the procedure. When a Clip is placed a Mammogram is done to confirm the Clip location.

Generally Breast Biopsies are considered very safe and patients can resume their usual activities shortly after. For most patients the risks include bruising, bleeding and discomfort following the procedure, which can be managed with Tylenol or acetaminophen.Any procedure where the skin is penetrated carries a risk of infection however the chances of infection occurring are very low. Sterile equipment is used and our staff are extremely careful in following all infection control procedures.Other risks include (but are not limited to) allergic reaction to the anesthetic or, if the abnormality being biopsied is close to a breast implant there is a possibility the implant could rupture. If the Radiologist thinks this is a possibility they will discuss it with you and discuss alternatives before proceeding.

Yes, you will be awake for the procedure. We use Lidocaine, Xylocaine or Novocain to numb the biopsy site. Please inform us before your Biopsy if you have an allergy to any anesthetics.

The procedure will take approximately 30-45 minutes once you are in the exam room. If a Clip is placed during the Biopsy you will need to have a Mammogram done after the Biopsy.

• Do not take Aspirin or Ibuprofen for 7-10 days prior to your scheduled Biopsy. Tylenol is recommended for pain.
• Call your Doctor and inform us before your Biopsy if:
  • you are taking any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or blood thinners including Warfarin, Coumadin or Heparin.
  • you have a bleeding disorder, prolonged bleeding or easy bruising.
  • you have an allergy to Xylocaine or Novocain.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may eat and drink as usual provided you do not have a large meal before your Biopsy.
• Bring a comfortable, supportive bra, such as a sports bra, for after the procedure.
• Bring a friend or family member who can take you home following the procedure*. Please bring an interpreter if needed*.

*Please note, we are currently limiting the number of guests inside the clinic due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Your Companion will be asked to wait outside or in your car while you have your Biopsy.

You may return to work on the day of your Biopsy as long as you are not doing any heavy lifting or strenuous activity.

You will be able to drive yourself home, although some patients may prefer to bring someone with them to drive home.

While our Radiologists may be able to provide some preliminary results on the day of your exam, the sample taken from your breast will be sent to the lab to be tested. Final test results will be returned to your Doctor within 10 working days of the Biopsy.

You may want to bring a Companion with you for moral support and to drive you home after the procedure. Your Companion will not be able to accompany you into the exam room for the biopsy but we have a comfortable waiting room where your companion can wait.* If you have difficulty understanding English please bring someone with you to help translate.*Please note, we are currently limiting the number of guests inside the clinic due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Your Companion will be asked to wait outside or in your car while you have your Biopsy.

If possible please come to the appointment with your relative to help with translation. If there is no one who can assist in translating you can help your relative by going over the exam prep and other information provided on this page.