What is a MRI Guided Breast Biopsy?

The MRI Guided breast biopsy, with the aid of the dedicated MRI coil and specialized software is a quick reliable procedure. The MRI-guided breast biopsy is performed when an abnormality of the breast is not diagnosed with certainty on either a mammogram or ultrasound. If a mammogram or ultrasound findings are equivocal, however, and there is an abnormality seen on the breast MRI, biopsy may be performed using MRI guidance.

What to expect during the procedure.

You will be asked to lie flat on your stomach with your breasts in an open cupped portion of the table. Your breasts will be moderately compressed, similar to a mammogram. While in the breast cup, images will be obtained and the lesion will be noted on the computerized images. Dr. Sundheim uses these images to determine where the biopsy needle should be inserted.

Your breast will be thoroughly sterilized and you will be given a local anesthesia. A small incision will be made in the skin. Dr. Sundheim will then carefully insert the needle until it is next to the abnormal tissue. You may feel a slight pressure; however you should not experience any significant pain. Additional images are taken and then the needle samples the tissue.

A tiny marker will be placed where the tissue was removed. The incision is then cleaned and taped and a pressure dressing is applied.

How to prepare for your MRI guided breast biopsy.

Wear comfortable clothes w/ a separate top & bottom.
Remove all jewelry.
Do not take blood thinning medications (i.e Coumadin) prior to the procedure. SPEAK W/ YOUR DOCTOR REGARDING HOW LONG YOU NEED TO BE OFF OF THE MEDICATION PRIOR TO THE TEST. DO NOT JUST STOP TAKING THE MEDICATION!
Do not wear eye makeup.
Bring a supportive bra (i.e sports bra).
Do not wear deodorant, lotion, or perfume.
Do not take Aspirin or anything containing Aspirin, anti inflammatory medications or Vitamin E for 3 days prior to the procedure.
You may eat and drink as normal.