An interventional breast biopsy is a common diagnostic procedure that is used to remove a small sample of breast tissue for analysis under a microscope. One of the common questions that women have before undergoing an interventional breast biopsy is how long the procedure takes. The duration of the procedure can vary depending on several factors, including the type of biopsy being performed and the imaging guidance used.
Types of interventional breast biopsies
There are several types of interventional breast biopsies, including fine-needle aspiration biopsy, core needle biopsy, and vacuum-assisted biopsy. The type of biopsy recommended by your doctor will depend on the size and location of the abnormality being examined.
How long does the procedure take?
The duration of an interventional breast biopsy can vary, but most procedures take between 30 minutes to an hour. The length of the procedure will depend on several factors, including the type of biopsy being performed and the imaging guidance used.
Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is the quickest type of interventional breast biopsy and usually takes about 20 minutes. Core needle biopsy takes slightly longer and can take between 30 minutes to an hour, while vacuum-assisted biopsy takes the longest and can take up to an hour.
During the procedure, you will be asked to lie down on an exam table, and a local anesthetic will be used to numb the area around the biopsy site. Imaging guidance, such as ultrasound, mammography, or MRI, will be used to precisely locate the area of concern in the breast. A small incision will be made in the skin, and a biopsy device will be inserted into the breast to remove a sample of tissue.
After the procedure, you may be asked to stay in the recovery area for a short period of time. You may experience some soreness or bruising at the biopsy site, but this should go away within a few days. You can usually return to your normal activities within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
In conclusion, an interventional breast biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to remove a small sample of breast tissue for analysis under a microscope. The duration of the procedure can vary, but most procedures take between 30 minutes to an hour. If you have been recommended for an interventional breast biopsy, talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure.