 Your radiologist might find something on your mammogram that appears suspicious. If so, a biopsy is recommended to find out more information. This means taking a sample of tissue that can be evaluated in the pathology lab. Today we can perform minimally invasive procedures, using imaging guidance to take a small sample through the skin with a needle. It's faster, more comfortable, and has a quicker recovery than a surgical biopsy. Because 80% of these will be benign or non-cancerous, in most cases surgery can be avoided. The 3D-affirmed biopsy system is an advanced approach offering maximum precision, a shorter procedure time, and lower total x-ray exposure. It also allows us to quickly reach challenging lesions, so for instance those that are located far back and those which are difficult to see. It's not as scary as it sounds and it helps to know ahead of time what is going to happen. A patient undergoing this type of biopsy can expect a 45 minute outpatient procedure, although the actual biopsy usually takes less than a minute. First the technologist will position you and then take a few pictures. The computer is used to mark the target area and precisely guide the biopsy device. Once the area of interest is in view, the radiologist will perform the procedure. Immediately before the biopsy, the radiologist will clean and numb the breast. You can expect a little pinch and maybe some burning with a local anesthesia. A skin nick is made, which allows entry of the needle and does not require stitches. The needle will be advanced and when in good position, the instrument is triggered. You will hear a noise and you might feel some pressure. Deeper anesthesia is then given and samples are obtained. Our experience is that most patients do not have pain. When the procedure is complete, a biopsy clip is inserted to mark the biopsy site. You cannot feel this clip. The clip is made of titanium and about the size of a pinhead. It is MRI compatible and does not set off metal detectors. Placing this is critical in case surgical excision is necessary based on the results. When the procedure is finished, pressure is applied to minimize bruising. Then you will have a post biopsy mammogram, which is typically less pressure than diagnostic quality mammograms. Most women will get back to their daily activity the next day. Your doctor will contact you with the results when they are available. This new system allows us to perform minimally invasive procedures with more accuracy and speed than older, stereotypic biopsy devices. Ultimately, this leads to fewer surgical procedures and greater patient satisfaction.