Breast Ultrasound Biopsy

Breast Ultrasound Biopsy in Denver

When you have a suspicious breast finding, our specialists use a breast ultrasound biopsy to determine if a mass is cancerous or benign.

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What Is an Ultrasound Breast Biopsy?

An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is a minimally invasive breast biopsy that uses ultrasound guidance. We use a biopsy to determine if a mass we see within the breast is benign (noncancerous) or cancerous.

Ultrasound is an imaging tool that uses sound waves to produce images of breast tissue. A radiologist reviews these images and scans to distinguish various findings, looking for changes that may be as obvious as “masses” or as subtle as slight pulling of the tissue called “architectural distortion.” The findings on a breast ultrasound are often too small or deep to be felt on examination.

The best way for women to detect early changes in their breasts is to have regular screening mammograms, which often show areas of concern before they can be palpated during a clinical exam or breast self-examination (BSE). Further testing or a breast biopsy may be recommended if we discover a mass or architectural distortion during a screening.

When Do You Need a Breast Biopsy?

Changes in breast tissue may lead to a doctor recommending a breast biopsy. Signs that may indicate breast tissue changes can include:

Masses

Lumps

Calcifications

Abnormal tissue

When a screening or test discovers an indeterminate or suspicious finding, the radiologist may recommend a breast needle biopsy to see if the mass is benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancer). A lesion seen by ultrasound can be biopsied using ultrasound as a guide, even if it cannot be felt on clinical or self-breast examination. The physicians at The Women’s Imaging Center use their extensive clinical experience to determine the need for a breast biopsy.

Some breast lesions are not homogenous, have calcification, or are complex in nature. For these, we may recommend a vacuum-assisted breast biopsy. The preparation is almost identical, but the needle (called a probe) is larger and is a single insertion. Using ultrasound guidance, we insert the probe at the target site and use a gentle vacuum to extract the lesion. We usually place a biopsy clip at the site of removal. This procedure is also referred to as a minimally invasive non-surgical excisional biopsy. Afterward, the biopsy sample is prepared and delivered to the Pathologist for processing and interpretation.

Lumps That Come and Go

For breast lumps that come and go with the menstrual cycle, it is reasonable for a premenopausal (before menopause) woman to observe a non-suspicious finding until after the next menstrual cycle. If the finding does not resolve after the next monthly cycle, then you should seek attention from your physician or dedicated breast imaging center. However, some women may present with serious breast complaints such as a fixed mass, skin change including thickening redness, nipple inversion, or bloody discharge is noted. If you experience any of these serious symptoms or signs, then immediate imaging workup is indicated.

What to Expect With a Breast Ultrasound Biopsy

At The Women’s Imaging Center, we perform procedures on-site for your comfort and convenience. We offer ultrasound-guided breast biopsy at any one of our multiple locations. If you need a vacuum-guided breast biopsy, that procedure is performed at our main Denver/Cherry Creek location.

1. Preparing for the Biopsy

We ask that you do not take medicines that can thin the blood unless you are directed to continue taking them by your referring physician. Some patients may have special reasons to stay on their blood thinners, such as a recent metal-bore cardiac stent or clotting disorder. Always listen to your referring clinician regarding those decisions. We advise against taking aspirin if you are solely on it for prevention reasons. Please refrain from any rigorous activities for one to two days after the procedure. So plan your exercise regimen either before or several days after your ultrasound-guided breast biopsy. Even though there will be only a tiny nick on the skin, we want to minimize the chance of soreness, infection, or bleeding at the site.

2. During the Biopsy

You will see several assistants, including a medical assistant and/or ultrasound technologist, to help the radiologist perform the procedure. The medical assistant or technologist will ultrasound the area to localize the finding for the breast needle biopsy. The radiologist will anesthetize the skin with a tiny numbing needle and use the ultrasound transducer to watch the entire procedure for better positioning. Using ultrasound allows the radiologist to visualize and accurately sample the lesion in 3D and avoid adjacent anatomy. Another special needle called a core needle is inserted at the target site. This needle has a hollow center and is spring-loaded into a hand-held device. When a sample is taken, you will hear a clicking sound similar to the sound you remember when getting your ears pierced. However, you shouldn’t feel any discomfort due to the local anesthetic.

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Meet Our Specialists

Our physicians are dedicated to serving our community, working hard to help women detect breast abnormalities as early as possible. With decades of experience, we are elevating standards in women’s imaging.

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Kelly McAleese, MD

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Timothy Colt, MD

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Barbara Jaeger, MD

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John Lewin, MD

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Kelly McAleese, MD

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Timothy Colt, MD

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Barbara Jaeger, MD

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John Lewin, MD

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Ultrasound Biopsy

When is a breast biopsy needed?

We may recommend a breast biopsy if an abnormality is detected during a mammogram, ultrasound, or clinical breast exam. A biopsy is used to determine if the abnormality is cancerous or benign.

How is a breast ultrasound biopsy done?

During a breast ultrasound biopsy, a small tissue sample is removed from the breast using a needle guided by ultrasound during a breast ultrasound biopsy. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia.

We begin by cleaning and numbing the area with a local anesthetic. A small incision is made, and a biopsy needle is inserted into the breast tissue. The ultrasound helps determine the precise location of the abnormality. A small tissue sample is removed and sent to a laboratory for examination.

Why would I need a breast ultrasound after my mammogram?

A breast ultrasound may be recommended after a mammogram if there are any suspicious findings on the mammogram that need further evaluation. A breast ultrasound can provide more detailed images of the breast tissue and help identify abnormalities that may require additional testing or treatment.

Insurance Options We Honor

At The Women's Imaging Center, we accept most major insurance providers and provide affordable self-pay options. If you have any questions about whether we accept your insurance, please contact us at (303) 321-2273.

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Breast Ultrasound Biopsy Near Me

With multiple location across the Denver area, we make it easy for you to find a “Women’s Imaging Center near me” or a “Medical Diagnostic Imaging Center near me”

Denver 3773 Cherry Creek North Drive #101 Denver, CO 80209 (303) 321-2273

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(303) 321-2273