Ambulatory breast biopsies: the patient's choice

Modern medical practice demands increased patient participation in decision making and an effort to provide economical, safe care. It is recommended that performing breast biopsies as an ambulatory procedure under local anesthesia fulfills these criteria. We present a series of 50 ambulatory breast biopsies, eight of whom had cancer. Of the 50 patients, 94 per cent said they would have it done this way again. Those without cancer went home reassured and those with cancer appreciated time to consider definitive therapy. At our hospital, there is a savings of $750.00 per patient when compared to an inpatient biopsy. It is therefore recommended that patients be given a choice of ambulatory or inpatient biopsy. Ambulatory biopsy avoids general anesthesia, reduces medical costs, and provides opportunity for discussion and planning should further surgery be necessary.