Piedmont Fayette Hospital’s Women’s Imaging Center is now offering stereotactic breast biopsy, a non-surgical alternative for collecting breast tissue.

The stereotactic biopsy is used as a follow-up to diagnostic mammograms and breast ultrasounds that may detect lesions or lumps in the breast that are indeterminate. A specially designed table allows the patient to rest face-down with her breast projecting through a hole. A local anesthetic is administered.

The biopsy is then conducted below the table, after it is raised slightly so the radiologist can access the breast and remove tissue samples. Typically, six to 10 samples are taken depending on the patient. The incision is relatively small, usually no larger than a quarter inch. Treatment recommendations are made after the samples are analyzed by the referring physician.

Before the stereotactic biopsy was introduced, most patients with suspicious breast calcifications had to have surgery to remove tissue samples, including those whose lesions were benign. In fact, nearly 80 percent of all biopsies are benign.

“The stereotactic breast biopsy eliminates the need for painful and invasive surgery especially for the majority of women whose lesions are not cancerous,” said Jeralynn Scott, manager of the Piedmont Fayette Hospital Women’s Imaging Center. “This procedure causes minimal discomfort compared to surgical biopsies. Patients go home the same day with limited restrictions.”

October marks National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. If you are a woman over the age of 40 or have a family history of breast cancer, you should undergo annual mammography screenings. In addition to seeking routine mammograms and undergoing clinical breast examinations, all women should conduct monthly breast self-exams beginning at the age of 20.

Regardless of your age, if you find a lump or notice changes in your breast, talk to your healthcare provider immediately.

Piedmont Fayette Hospital’s Women’s Imaging Center provides a range of women’s health services, including screening mammography, breast biopsies, breast ultrasounds, diagnostic mammography and bone density screenings.

The Women’s Imaging Center is certified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and accredited by the American College of Radiology.

The Women’s Imaging Center is open for patient appointments Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 6 p.m.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 770-719-7007.

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