Fine Needle Aspiration/Biopsy
A fine needle is inserted into the nodule of concern guided by the Ultrasound images.
A Fine Needle Aspiration is typically done to determine the nature of the cells
in a particular nodule. More than one needle passes for aspiration is recommended
into the nodule for the most conclusive reading. This is not a guaranteed diagnostic
tool, but it is an excellent means for us to help determine a proper diagnosis.
If we still have questions about the cells we recommend to remove the nodule surgically.
Usually no topical anesthesia is needed, and the majority of patients report only
minor bruising and discomfort. This may last for 1 to 3 days after the procedure.
Accuracy of the Fine Needle Aspiration is usually between 80 and 90%, but the rate
of accurate readings increases with the use of Ultrasound Guided Core Biopsy. There
are, however, certain nodules that make it more difficult to attain an accurate
reading. These nodules contain a high number of follicular cells. If this is the
case, patients are encouraged to have more than one biopsy during the course of
the year.
What is Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy and
Some Common Uses of the Procedure?
In ultrasound-guided breast biopsy, ultrasound imaging is used to help guide the
radiologist's instruments to the site of the abnormal growth. We utilize state-of-the-art
Ultrasound equipment for the accuracy of our diagnosis. Ultrasound- Guided Biopsies
are most valuable with small, difficult to access nodules that may be partially
cystic, as well as when a breast ultrasound shows an abnormality not seen mammographically
such as:
- a suspicious solid mass
- a distortion in the structure of the breast tissue
- an area of abnormal tissue change
There are two types of ultrasound-guided biopsies -
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) and Core
biopsy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily. Approximately 8 of every 10 biopsies are benign and show no cancer.
Our Board Certified Radiologist will do biopsy procedures. Highly trained and qualified
staff will be assisting our doctor.
There will be little or no scaring since the procedures involve small incisions.
Most patients feel little or no pain. You may have some slight bruising and tenderness
following the biopsy. Tylenol is a good to stay free of pain.
You'll need to discuss this with your doctor but in most cases you will not need
a ride home.
Ask your doctor about how long it will take to receive your diagnosis.
We send all biopsy specimens to NYU pathology lab. Our radiologist will analyze
the lab results and send a signed report to your primary care physician or the physician
who referred you for the exam, who will share the results with you. In some cases
the radiologist may discuss results with you.