Stereotactic-guided excisional biopsy: a new technique for very thin breasts

Stereotactic biopsies are widely used for the diagnosis of breast lesions. Most biopsy devices require breast thickness of at least 25-30 mm with compression. We describe an alternative technique in order to perform excisional stereotactic-guided biopsies for very thin breasts using the prone stereotactic table. In the outpatient setting and with local anesthesia, this procedure can be performed by a radiologist, a surgeon, and a nurse. After conventional stereotactic localization, a fine needle is placed at the site of the lesion. Once the point is marked with a skin marker, a 25G x 16 mm needle is introduced. Then, a couple of stereotactic views are taken to confirm the correct position of the needle. Later, the surgeon excises the lesion guided by the needle. Additional radiographs of the specimen and the remaining breast tissue are obtained to ensure the accuracy of the procedure.