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Ultrasound Guided Biopsy - What it is

What is an ultrasound guided biopsy?

An ultrasound guided biopsy is a procedure to evaluate masses within the breast that are visible on ultrasound.

What happens during the examination?

During the procedure, you will lie on the examination couch. You can be assured that every effort will be taken to minimise discomfort.
The radiologist will place an ultrasound probe over the site of the breast lump.
After administering a local anaesthetic, the radiologist makes a small opening in the skin.
A sterile biopsy needle is placed into the abnormal breast tissue to extract tissue specimens, which are sent to the laboratory for microscopic examination.
It is required to take multiple tissue samples.

How do I prepare for the procedure?

There is no need for you to fast before the procedure.
Please inform the doctor and breast imaging unit staff if you are taking aspirin, ibuprofen or any blood thinning medication.
Do not apply talcum powder or body lotion on the day of procedure.
Wear a two-piece outfit.

How long is the procedure?

After the procedure

Minimal discomfort, small amounts of blood on the dressing and discoloration at the biopsy site are normal. The amount of bleeding may vary for different patients.
The bruise around the biopsy site may persist up to four weeks. Please do not be alarmed as the bruising will slowly disperse over time.
If your wound starts to bleed when you are at home, apply firm compression on your wound for about 10 to 15 minutes. If the bleeding continues, please consult your doctor immediately. You may visit the KK Breast Imaging Unit during office hours (8.30am to 5.30pm) or the Urgent O&G Centre after office hours. Please inform the attending doctor that you had a breast biopsy done earlier in the day.
If there is discomfort at the biopsy site, you may apply an ice pack to the area. To avoid thermal injury to the skin, you should not leave the ice pack for longer than 10 minutes at any one time.
If the pain is severe, take the pain medicine according to the doctor’s instruction (stop if you have allergic reaction to the medicine and consult the doctor).
A small dressing will be applied to the wound after the procedure. Change the dressing when necessary. After three to four days, you may remove it at home. If a pressure bandage is applied, remove it the next morning.
Avoid strenuous activities (e.g. swimming, aerobics) for the first three to four days after the biopsy. Excessive activity may dislodge the blood clot and make the wound bleed.
Avoid wetting the biopsy area while in the shower.

Will I need to be admitted?

The examination usually does not require hospital admission. It can be performed on an outpatient basis.

If you are admitted to the hospital on the appointment day, please inform the ward staff to contact the KK Breast Imaging Unit.

Important points to note:

Please schedule an appointment for your post biopsy consultation two weeks after the procedure.
Please bring along your previous mammograms or ultrasound scans for your appointment.
Please do not carry any valuables, jewellery or excessive cash with you during your appointment.
For enquiries, please call 6394-8058 during office hours (8.30am to 5.30pm).