Why is this procedure done?
A surgical biopsy is done to look at an abnormal area in the breast. It may be done to check: ‚
- Breast lumps
- Thick or hard area of the breast
- Abnormal nipple area
- Leaking or discharge from the nipple
- Abnormal area seen on ultrasound or mammogram test
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What will the results be?
The biopsy may help your doctor decide what kind of problem you are having with your breast. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder, lotion, or perfume near your breasts or under your arms.
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will change into a hospital shirt or gown.
- The doctor may put an I.V. or small tube put in your vein for fluid. If you need to have general anesthesia, the drugs will be put in the I.V. tube.
- Your doctor will make a cut in your breast and take a tissue sample. The cut will be closed with stitches.
- The doctor will put a bandage or dressing over the cut site.
What happens after the procedure?
- You can go home right after the procedure.
- You may feel some pain after the procedure. The doctor will give you drugs for this.
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- Wear a support bra.
- Talk to your doctor about how to care for your cut site. Ask your doctor about:
- When you should change your bandages
- When you may take a bath or shower
- If you need to be careful with lifting things over 10 pounds
- When you may go back to your normal activities like work or driving
- Wash your hands before touching your wound or dressing.
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits.
- If you have stitches or staples, you will need to have them taken out. Your doctor will often want to do this in 1 to 2 weeks.
- Your doctor will talk with you about the test results. Together you can make a plan if more treatment is needed.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
What problems could happen?
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Bruising
- Breast changes shape, like a dimple
- Numbness where the biopsy was done
Where can I learn more?
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality ‚
http://www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/index.cfm/search-for-guides-reviews-and-reports/?pageaction=displayproduct&productID=407 ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚