

Breast biopsies at Mary Lanning Healthcare can be performed either using x-ray guidance (stereotactic breast biopsy) or ultrasound guidance. The type of biopsy needed is determined by the radiologist. Both stereotactic and ultrasound guided breast biopsies can be done at either MLH Hastings Imaging Center or Mary Lanning Healthcare main campus.
Stereotactic breast biopsy is a procedure using xray guidance to determine the location of the abnormality within the breast. During this procedure, you will be seated in an upright position. Multiple x-ray images are taken at different angles. A computer calculates the exact location of the area to be biopsied. Once the area is identified, the radiologist injects a local anesthetic. Small samples of tissue are removed from the breast by a radiologist and sent to the laboratory for review by a pathologist.
An Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy is a procedure that uses sound waves to help the radiologist locate the abnormality in the breast and remove a sample of breast tissue for testing. The procedure is performed while lying on your back with the arm raised above your head. Once the area is identified, the radiologist injects a local anesthetic. To ensure an adequate sample is obtained, several cores of tissue will be taken and sent to the laboratory for review by a pathologist.
For more information about Breast Biopsies, or to schedule an appointment, please call: Central Scheduling at 402-46-5884.