Stereotactic breast biopsy: recumbent biopsy using add-on upright equipment

The purpose of the study was to show that stereotactic breast biopsy can be performed effectively and accurately using add-on stereotactic equipment when it is performed with the patient in a decubitus or recumbent position.

We retrospectively reviewed the results of 225 stereotactic core breast biopsies performed during a 42-month period. The biopsies were performed using a reclining mammography chair and add-on stereotactic equipment. Procedures were performed with the patient in the right or left lateral decubitus position or upright. Patients with benign biopsy results were followed up mammographically at 6 months initially, then yearly.

Of the 225 lesions biopsied stereotactically, 205 lesions (91%) were biopsied with the patient in the decubitus (right or left) position and 20 (9%) biopsied with the patient upright. Pathology results were classified as abnormal in 45 lesions (20%) and normal in 180 lesions (80%). All but one of the abnormal lesions were followed up with surgical excision. One hundred thirty-four of the 180 benign lesions have been followed up with at least one 6-month mammogram (follow-up range, 6-40 months), and none of the lesions has been subsequently proven malignant.

Stereotactic core biopsy can be performed effectively and accurately using standard add-on equipment when it is performed with the patient in the decubitus position. This approach obviates the use of dedicated prone stereotactic equipment.