[Indications for percutaneous stereotactic vacuum core biopsy of the breast]

As a consequence of technical improvements and an increased number of investigations in asymptomatic patients, more and more suspicious lesions are being detected in mammography. These lesions can be evaluated using different biopsy techniques. In comparison to open biopsy, stereotactic methods require less costs and time, and reduce morbidity. The introduction of the vacuum core biopsy method allowed the excision of suspicious areas through a single needle insertion. In the current literature, however, the indications for vacuum core biopsy are being discussed controversely. This article includes an introduction of this specific technique, a presentation of the BI-RADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) categories and an overview of the literature of the indications for use of the vacuum system. The "pros and cons" of vacuum core biopsy will be discussed in comparison with the alternative biopsy methods.