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Several methods may be used to remove tissue for the pathologist to examine. The choice of which biopsy method is used depends on the size and location of your abnormality, and whether is can be felt or not.
  • Fine Needle Aspiration: A type of biopsy that is performed with a small needle and syringe. Cells are removed that can be examined under the microscope.
  • Core Needle Biopsy: A type of biopsy that is performed using a larger, hollow needle and a spring loaded instrument. Several cores of tissue are removed for examination under the microscope. Additional information can be obtained with these slightly larger pieces of tissue.
  • Excisional Biopsy: A type of biopsy that is performed in an operating room. A small incision is made on the skin above the lump. The area of concern is then removed for examination under the microscope. The incision is closed with stitches.
  • Ultrasound Guided Core Needle Biopsy: A type of biopsy that is performed using a larger, hollow needle and a spring loaded instrument. Using ultrasound guidance, the area of concern is found. Several “cores” or samples of tissue are removed and then examined under the microscope.
  • Mammotome Biopsy: A type of biopsy is done by using a larger, hollow needle. The area of concern is found by using ultrasound as a guide. Several samples or cores of tissue are removed to be examined under the microscope.
  • Stereotactic Biopsy: A type of biopsy that utilizes a special computerized mammogram and instrument. Lying face down, the breast hangs through an opening in this special table. A needle apparatus is inserted into the breast; an additional needle withdraws tissue from the area of concern. This tissue is then examined under the microscope.
  • Needle Localization Biopsy: A type of biopsy that uses radiology guidance to insert a needle close to the area of concern. A small incision is made on the skin near this needle. The area of concern is then removed for examination under the microscope. The incision is closed with stitches.


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