Stereotactic Biopsy

A stereotactic biopsy is a form of needle biopsy. "Stereotactic" refers to method in which we will image the finding, in order to guide the needle. A stereotactic biopsy is the way we biopsy a mammogram finding, it is not used for ultrasound or MRI findings. If the finding is a cluster of calcifications found on mammography, this will be the preferable mode of biopsy. Nodules are often seen both on mammography and sonography and then an ultrasound guided biopsy is faster, cheaper, and more comfortable for the patient. When we refer to a stereotactic biopsy most facilities are using a vacuum-assisted devise (needle) but this is not part of the definition of stereotactic. A vacuum-assisted devise is particularly beneficial when sampling calcifications, as quantity of tissue retrieved will contribute to accuracy of the diagnosis. This is not necessarily the case for masses. A stereotactic biopsy is a form of needle biopsy. "Stereotactic" refers to method in which we will image the finding, in order to guide the needle. A stereotactic biopsy is the way we biopsy a mammogram finding, it is not used for ultrasound or MRI findings. If the finding is a cluster of calcifications found on mammography, this will be the preferable mode of biopsy. Nodules are often seen both on mammography and sonography and then an ultrasound guided biopsy is faster, cheaper, and more comfortable for the patient. When we refer to a stereotactic biopsy most facilities are using a vacuum-assisted devise (needle) but this is not part of the definition of stereotactic. A vacuum-assisted devise is particularly beneficial when sampling calcifications, as quantity of tissue retrieved will contribute to accuracy of the diagnosis. This is not necessarily the case for masses.