Stereotactic Breast Biopsy: Indications and Results

This paper will address various issues relevant to core-needle biopsy of the breast under stereotactic imaging guidance. Patient and equipment selection, indications, contraindications, complications, limitations, and advantages will be discussed. The role of stereotactic core biopsy in patient management will also be addressed. Percutaneous imaging-guided biopsy is an increasingly used method for diagnosing breast abnormalities, particularly those that are nonpalpable. Imaging guidance can be provided with either radiographic (usually stereotactic) imaging or sonographic imaging. In the near future, the technology to provide guidance under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will likely also become available. In addition to imaging options, tissue sampling can be performed with a variety of techniques, including fine-needle aspiration cytology or core-needle biopsy. If a core biopsy is performed, it can be done using either a gun-needle combination or vacuum suction-needle device. This paper will address various issues relevant to core-needle biopsy of the breast under stereotactic imaging guidance. Patient and equipment selection, indications, contraindications, complications, limitations, and advantages will be discussed. The role of stereotactic core biopsy i