Outcomes of Canceled Tomosynthesis-Guided Biopsy of Architectural Distortion Due to Nonvisualization

Architectural distortion without a sonographic correlate is an indication for digital breast tomosynthesis-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy (DBT-VAB). However, when the finding is not visualized on the day of biopsy, the procedure is canceled. This study reports the outcomes of canceled DBT-VAB of architectural distortion due to nonvisualization.

In this IRB-approved retrospective study, chart review was performed to identify DBT-VABs of architectural distortion at our institution between June 1, 2017, and November 1, 2020, that were canceled because of nonvisualization at the time of biopsy. Cases without follow-up imaging were excluded. Statistical analysis, including the frequency of cases yielding malignancy by the end of the study period, was performed.

In total, 7.2% (39/544) of architectural distortions recommended for biopsy during the study period were canceled because of nonvisualization, 30 of which had follow-up imaging and were included in the study. Mean patient age was 56 years (standard deviation [SD], 9.6 years) and mean follow-up time was 26.7 months (SD, 11.2 months; range, 8.4-50.9 months). During the follow-up period, 16.7% (5/30) underwent repeat biopsy attempt, with one malignant result (1/30, 3.3%; SD, 18%; 95% confidence interval: 0.6%-16.7%). In total, 86.7% (26/30) of cases were declared benign during the follow-up period and 10% (3/30) remained stable with a BI-RADS 3 assessment category.

During available follow-up, there was a low likelihood that distortions not visualized at the time of DBT-VAB represented malignancy (3.3%, 1/30). While this low malignancy rate is reassuring, imaging follow-up is warranted.