An ultrasound-guided core biopsy is a procedure used to collect tissue samples from a suspicious area in the breast that can be seen on ultrasound but not felt during a physical exam. During the procedure, you will lie on an examination table, and a local anaesthetic will be applied to numb the area of interest. The radiologist uses ultrasound to locate the abnormality in real-time and then inserts a hollow needle through the skin to obtain small core tissue samples. You may feel some pressure or a clicking sensation as the tissue is removed, but the procedure itself is typically not painful due to the anaesthetic. The samples are sent to the lab for further analysis to check for signs of cancer or abnormal cells.

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In contrast, a stereotactic vacuum-assisted core biopsy (VACB) is often used for abnormalities that are visible on a mammogram but cannot be felt or seen on ultrasound. For this procedure, you will lie face down on a specialized table, with your breast positioned through an opening. X-ray images are taken from two angles to precisely guide the needle to the area of concern. After applying local anaesthesia to numb the area, the radiologist uses a vacuum-assisted needle to remove tissue samples. The vacuum helps collect multiple samples with a single insertion, allowing for more tissue to be removed efficiently. This technique is particularly useful for detecting small, non-palpable lesions, such as microcalcifications. This procedure is more specialized and only done in certain radiology centers with the necessary equipment and expertise.

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In both biopsy procedures, a small clip is sometimes inserted at the site of the biopsy. The clip serves as a marker to help locate the area in future imaging, especially if the abnormality is no longer visible after the tissue samples are taken. The clip is tiny, harmless, and remains in place without causing any discomfort or affecting breast tissue. After the biopsy, most patients experience minimal side effects, such as mild bruising or soreness, and can resume normal activities quickly. These procedures provide accurate tissue samples, helping guide treatment decisions while minimizing the need for more invasive surgeries.

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You GP may have already arranged for you to have this biopsy done prior to seeing Dr Wu. If not, then she will assess your history and imaging results and help you make the arrangements to have the most appropriate type of biopsy done if needed.