Official Website of PENN Radiology

Patient Services

Patient Prep & Instruction Manual

Updated May 2006

Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Department of Radiology 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Scheduled Test: BREAST CORE BIOPSY/STEREOTACTIC

When:_____________

Date:_____________

Time:_____________

Where:	You will report to Outpatient Radiology Reception (first floor Silverstein building). Look for signs to Outpatient Radiology Reception area where you are to check in.
Purpose:	This procedure has been ordered to obtain tissue from the abnormality seen on your mammogram or ultrasound. The tissue will be sent to the pathology department for diagnosis.
Preparation:	Since this is not a surgical procedure there are no eating or drinking restrictions required. You should not take any aspirin-containing medications during the week before the procedure because aspirin interferes with the blood clotting. Allergies to lidocaine or epinephrine (numbing medication) should be discussed with the radiologist prior to the procedure so that an alternative medication may be used.
Procedure:	This procedure can take between 60-90 minutes depending on the complexity of the abnormality being examined. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown designed specifically for mammogram procedures. Your clothes will be stored in a locker that you will be given the key for. Needle core biopsy is done in the mammography department and is performed by the mammography radiologist. It may be done with x-ray or ultrasound guidance, depending on your abnormality. Local anesthetic (numbing medication) will be used in the breast. The biopsy needle will be inserted into the abnormal area several times to obtain enough tissue for diagnosis. Both kinds of needle core breast biopsy are relatively pain-free for the patient. After the procedure, a band-aid will be placed on the needle site.
After Care:	You may leave the hospital immediately after the procedure is finished. You may return to your work or other activities on the day of your biopsy if those activities do not involve heavy lifting or strenuous athletics. You may resume all normal activities the next day. Please call a nurse coordinator at 349-5469, if you have any questions.

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Last Updated:12/20/06 ALK