Core-needle Breast Biopsy

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Core needle breast biopsy (BI-op-se) is a procedure to diagnose lumps in the breast. Caregivers use a large needle to remove a sample of tissue from the lump in your breast. Core needle breast biopsy may also use a suction to get a larger sample of tissue. The samples taken are sent to a lab and examined for cancer. When the lump is deep or not felt by your caregiver, he may use imaging procedures as a guide. These may include an ultrasound or a stereotactic mammography. Stereotactic mammography makes use of computers which help locate the lump. With core needle breast biopsy, your breast lesions may be diagnosed, and treated as soon as possible.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Medicines:

• Keep a list of your medicines: Keep a written list of the medicines you take, the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list of your medicines or the pill bottles when you see your caregivers. Do not take any medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbs, or food supplements without first talking to caregivers.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed: Always take your medicine as directed by caregivers. Call your caregiver if you think your medicines are not helping or if you feel you are having side effects. Do not quit taking your medicines until you discuss it with your caregiver.

Ask your caregiver when to return for a follow-up visit. Keep all appointments. Write down any questions you may have. This way you will remember to ask these questions during your next visit.

Breast exams: Do a monthly breast exam on your other breast. If you are having monthly periods, do it 2 or 3 days after your period ends. If you have gone through menopause (change of life), check your breasts on the same day each month. You may also need to have a mammogram taken regularly. Ask your caregiver for more information about how to do a breast exam and when to have a mammogram.

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• You have a fever (increased body temperature).
  
  
• You have discharge or pain in the area where the needle was inserted.
  
  
• Your skin is itchy, swollen, or has a rash.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your procedure or care.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:

• The skin around your biopsy area is red, swollen, or has pus.
  
  
• You feel something is bulging out into your chest and not going back in.
  
  
• You have pain in your chest or armpit that does not go away even after taking pain medicines.
  
  
• You have trouble breathing all of a sudden.
  
  
• Your shoulder, arm, or fingers feel numb, tingly, cool to touch, or look blue or pale.

Copyright © 2008 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Link to Page

Print Page

Email Page