Stereotactic breast biopsy: indications and results

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Pathology
• Oncology

Background:

• Imaging-guided large-core needle biopsies are effective diagnostic tools for breast pathologies.
• Compared to surgical biopsy, they offer faster and more cost-effective diagnoses.
• Complications are rare, with minor bruising and tenderness being common; cosmetic deformity is avoided.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of imaging-guided large-core needle biopsies, specifically stereotactic core biopsy.
• To highlight the advantages of stereotactic core biopsy over traditional surgical biopsy.
• To discuss limitations and specific diagnostic challenges associated with stereotactic core biopsy.

Main Methods:

• Stereotactic biopsy utilizes triangulation to precisely locate breast lesions for tissue sampling.
• Utilizes dedicated tables or add-on equipment for angled imaging views.
• Large-core needles are employed for tissue acquisition.

Main Results:

• Stereotactic core biopsy demonstrates at least 90% diagnostic accuracy.
• The procedure is suitable for most lesions, though calcifications and those near the chest wall or axilla can present challenges.
• Specific histological findings like ductal atypia or ductal carcinoma in situ may necessitate further surgical excision.

Conclusions:

• Imaging-guided large-core needle biopsy, particularly stereotactic core biopsy, is an accurate and minimally invasive method for diagnosing breast lesions.
• While highly effective, certain histological results require confirmatory surgical excision.
• The technique is generally safe, with minimal complications and no cosmetic deformity, making it a preferred diagnostic approach.