Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Why do I need this procedure?
An x-ray guided breast biopsy is done when your mammogram shows an abnormality such as an area of fine calcification or distortion that cannot be seen by ultrasound. It involves taking small sample of breast tissue using a needle guided by special x-ray equipment. The tissue is examined in a laboratory and a diagnosis can be made.
Are you on blood thinning medication?
Blood-thinning tablets such as Warfarin, Clopidogrel, apixaban, rivaroxaban or aspirin can lead to extra bleeding and bruising during a breast biopsy. If you take these drugs, please tell the Clinician before the procedure.
How will the procedure be done?
You will usually be seated or lying on your side. Your breast is positioned between two plates, similar to a mammogram, and several x-rays are taken. The x-ray images are used to work out the exact position for the biopsy needle, so it is very important that you keep as still as possible.
Will the procedure hurt?
Before the needle biopsy is done, local anaesthetic will be used to numb the area of the breast. This might sting for a few seconds until it takes effect. The biopsy needle is introduced through a small cut in the skin. Several small samples of tissue are taken using a special needle which has vacuum attached. Most patients report that the procedure is a little uncomfortable but does not hurt.
Marking the site of the biopsy
It is often necessary to mark the site of the biopsy with a clip in case you need further tests or surgery. A tiny metal clip can be inserted through the biopsy needle at the end of the procedure. The clip will not cause you any problems and will remain in the breast if the biopsy results are normal. The clip is compatible with scans (e.g., MRI) you may have in future and does not set off metal detector alarms. The Clinician will explain about using a breast marker clip before the procedure begins.
Are there any side-effects?
The most common side-effect is some bleeding and bruising around the area. We try to reduce this by applying firm hand pressure after the biopsy before a sterile dressing is applied. More severe side-effects such as infection are extremely rare.
Aftercare and Results
After the procedure you may experience some bruising in the breast. We usually advise to take simple pain killers such as paracetamol. Try not to have aspirin or ibuprofen type medicines as these can worsen the bruising. Wearing a firm bra, such as a sports bra, overnight may help. Hot or cold compression to the area can also be helpful.
An appointment for your biopsy results will be arranged by out administrative team.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Cancer care service.
About this information
Service:
Cancer care
Reference:
Q/003
Approval date:
1 May 2024
Review date:
1 May 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.