When your doctor detects an abnormality during a mammogram or clinical breast exam, it is natural to feel concerned. A breast biopsy is the next step in understanding what that abnormality might be, as it is the only definitive way to determine if the area is cancerous. At Hattiesburg Clinic, we combine compassionate care with medical expertise to ensure you receive the most accurate diagnosis and the best path forward for your health.
Your physician will recommend the most appropriate biopsy based on the size, location and nature of the abnormality. At Hattiesburg Clinic, we offer three specialized biopsy techniques, ensuring your care is as personalized and minimally invasive as possible.
Our biopsy procedures include:
At Hattiesburg Clinic, we provide MRI-guided biopsies, a minimally invasive option that uses no radiation. Instead, it employs radio frequencies and a strong magnet to capture highly detailed images of the breast, with the aid of contrast material administered through an IV. This allows our team to accurately target the area of concern and collect tissue samples.
Our team of surgeons and radiologists will walk you through the process, ensuring your comfort and care every step of the way. While the biopsy itself usually takes around an hour, we ask that you plan for a few hours with us for pre- and post-procedure care.
The stereotactic biopsy is another advanced, minimally invasive option available at Hattiesburg Clinic. This procedure uses low-dose X-ray imaging to help guide the biopsy needle to the precise location of the abnormality. After numbing the area with a local anesthetic, a small incision is made to extract a tissue sample, which is then analyzed by a pathologist.
While every patient is unique, most find this procedure quick and relatively comfortable. You will be able to return to your normal activities shortly after.
For some patients, an ultrasound-guided biopsy may be the best choice. This minimally invasive procedure uses sound waves to create real-time images of the breast, helping us pinpoint the exact location for tissue sampling. After applying a local anesthetic, we extract the sample through a small incision and the tissue is sent to a pathologist for further evaluation.
This procedure is typically completed in about 15 minutes, but plan to spend around an hour with us for preparation and care. The alternative to this method is a surgical biopsy. Our team at Hattiesburg Clinic is dedicated to ensuring you receive the care you need.
We encourage all women over the age of 40 to follow the American Cancer Society’s recommendation of having a yearly mammogram. Routine mammograms are essential because they can detect abnormalities in the breast even before they can be felt during a physical exam. This early detection plays a critical role in reducing breast cancer mortality by up to 30%.
At Hattiesburg Clinic, we are committed to providing patient-focused care in Mississippi. Our team of breast care specialists use the latest technology and biopsy techniques to ensure that your diagnosis is as accurate as possible. With decades of experience in complete breast health, we understand that the thought of a breast biopsy can be overwhelming, but you can trust us to provide guidance, clear communication and compassionate care throughout the entire process.