[3D ultrasound in core breast biopsy]

To evaluate the potential of three-dimensional ultrasound (3D US) in core biopsy of suspicious breast lesions.

3D US controlled core biopsy was performed in 107 breast masses in 100 women by using an automated biopsy system (11G coaxial needle, 12 G biopsy needle). Mean diameter of the lesions was 1.55 cm (0.5 - 3.5 cm). A linear 3D US volume scanner was used for the procedure. Localization of the lesion and placement of the needle were initially done under 2D US guidance. After core needle stroke a 3D US volume acquisition was performed to correlate lesion and needle position. In the case of eccentric needle position the needle was repositioned under 3D control. 5 specimens were taken from each lesion. The histological results from the specimens were correlated with the results from surgery or clinical follow-up (> 2.5 years).

Biopsy was taken from 59 probably benign (BI-RADS 3 - 4) and 48 malignant (BI-RADS 5) lesions. 3D US revealed 61 central, 44 eccentric and 2 marginal needle positions after the initial 2D guidance. Central repositioning of the needle was achievable under 3D guidance in all patients. Histological examination of the specimens revealed 41 invasive carcinomas and one in-situ carcinoma (DCIS). In one lesion, the carcinoma was missed in the core biopsy, despite central hits of the biopsy needle. This led to a sensitivity of 98 %, specificity of 100 %, PPV of 100 %, NPV of 98.5 % and accuracy of 99 % for the diagnosis of a malignant lesion.

3D US improves needle positioning as well as the depiction of correct needle placement in freehand core biopsy.