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Summary
Outpatient excisional biopsies for breast masses under local anesthesia are effective, avoiding unnecessary hospitalizations. Most patients preferred this method over inpatient procedures, highlighting its value.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Outpatient Procedures
- Breast Surgery
Background:
- Traditional inpatient biopsies for breast masses can lead to unnecessary hospital admissions.
- Patient preference and evolving healthcare economics necessitate evaluating alternative surgical approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and patient acceptance of outpatient excisional biopsies for breast masses under local anesthesia.
- To evaluate the potential of this approach in reducing healthcare costs and improving patient experience.
Main Methods:
- One hundred and three excisional biopsies of breast masses were performed on an outpatient basis.
- Local anesthesia was utilized for all procedures.
- Patient surveys were conducted to gauge acceptance and preference compared to prior inpatient procedures.
Main Results:
- Only two malignant tumors were identified among the 103 biopsies, indicating careful patient selection.
- 101 unnecessary hospital admissions were successfully avoided.
- A significant majority of patients preferred the outpatient, local anesthesia technique, with 13 of 16 previously inpatient patients favoring this approach.
Conclusions:
- Outpatient excisional biopsy of breast masses under local anesthesia is a viable and preferred method for patients.
- This approach offers significant benefits in avoiding unnecessary hospitalizations and potentially reducing healthcare expenditures.
- The technique's value is enhanced by current economic, social, and diagnostic advancements.