Stereotactic breast biopsy: a practical approach

The continuing increase of women participating in mammographic screening has resulted in a rise in the number of nonpalpable abnormalities identified. The development of minimally invasive and cost-effective methods to achieve accurate histologic diagnosis is needed. Stereotactic needle core biopsy had been used to reduce the number of women requiring needle-directed open surgical biopsies for benign disease. The team approach is essential for implementation of these newer diagnostic and interventional modalities. The surgeon has always taken the responsibility for coordinating the diagnostic and treatment components of appropriate breast care. Therefore, surgeons must continue to integrate new technology into their practices. The extensive experience of more than 3000 stereotactic biopsies performed at The Breast Center has provided the background for discussing the technical aspects of the procedure. The appropriate workup and subsequent indications for patient selection are reviewed. Pre and postprocedural patient considerations are addressed. This should provide an introduction to the basic principles of stereotactic needle core biopsy for implementation into a surgical practice.