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MR-guided percutaneous core biopsy of small breast lesions: first experience with a vertically open 0.5T scanner
Jens P Schneider1, Thomas Schulz, Lars C Horn
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany. schneidj@medizin.uni-leipzig.de
Purpose:
The growing use of highly sensitive but only moderate specific breast MRI requires the development of both minimal-invasive as well as precise biopsy systems. The aim of the study was to prove the accuracy and feasibility of a biopsy procedure carried out in prone position in a vertically opened MR imager.
Materials And Methods:
The biopsies were carried out in 21 women with lesions visible on MRI alone using an open breast coil with an integrated biopsy device. A 14 G coaxial needle was placed under near real-time MRI-guidance. After the tip of this needle was verified in contact with the lesion, we used a non MR-compatible, but MR-safe biopsy gun with a 16 G canula to take four to eight cores.
Results:
We found eight malignant and 12 benign lesions. In one patient the procedure was not successful. In case of malignancy, the operation confirmed the diagnosis in all cases. The 12/21 patients with benign lesions have been followed without evidence of lesions growth over eight to 28 months.
Conclusion:
The described procedure allows MRI-guided minimal invasive core biopsy of small breast lesions (five to 17 mm) with a high degree of accuracy.