Learning About Your Health

Needle Localization Breast Biopsy

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What is a Needle Localization Breast Biopsy?

A needle localization breast biopsy is done when a mammogram, breast exam, ultrasound test, or needle biopsy of your breast shows something that does not seem normal. The biopsy takes about one hour. A wire is placed next to an abnormal area in the breast. The surgeon removes the wire and the abnormal area in the operating room.

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Before Your Procedure

  • Please call (415) 600-2500 to register with a Surgical Nurse Facilitator within two weeks of your scheduled procedure. The Surgical Nurse Facilitator explains:
    • how to prepare for your biopsy,
    • whether you can eat or drink on the day of your procedure,
    • any tests you may need (EKG, chest x-ray, or blood test).
  • You may not drive yourself home after the procedure. Make sure someone can pick you up after your biopsy. You should NOT drive until the next day.

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On the Day of Your Procedure

  1. Arrive 2 hours early.
  2. Go to 3698 California Street, 3rd floor, Ambulatory Surgery Unit (ASU).
  3. You can come alone or bring family and/or friends. They can wait in the waiting room during the procedure.
  4. You sign a consent form stating that you understand the procedure.
  5. You get medicines to help you relax during the biopsy and a local anesthesia to numb the area. Please tell the staff if you have any pain.
  6. A technologist takes a mammogram or ultrasound image of your breast.
  7. A radiologist puts a wire through a thin needle into the breast tissue next to the area to be biopsied. The blue dye is injected through the needle to color the area.
  8. You are brought by wheelchair or gurney (bed with wheels) to the Operating Room. This is a good time to ask the surgeon any questions.
  9. The surgeon does the biopsy.

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After Your Procedure

  • After the biopsy, you return to Ambulatory Surgery. You may stay for 30 minutes to several hours, depending on how you feel.

  • Your nurse gives you both verbal and written instructions about how to care for yourself at home.

  • You may not drive yourself home after the biopsy. Make sure someone can pick you up after your biopsy. You should NOT drive until the next day.

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Results

Your get your first biopsy results from your surgeon within 2 - 3 days after your biopsy. Other results may take up to 10 days.

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More Ways to Learn

  • Call the Nurse at the Breast Health Center for more information about this procedure or for a free consultation: (415) 600-6281

  • Visit the American Cancer Society site for more information about breast cancer.


Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Will there be any discomfort?
Answer: Yes, you may have some discomfort after your biopsy and you get a prescription for pain medicine.

Question: Can I drive home after the procedure?
Answer: No, make sure someone can pick you up after your procedure.

Question: When will I get my results?
Answer: Your biopsy results are ready in 2 -3 days.


Produced by the Center for Patient and Community Education in association with the Breast Health Center at California Pacific Medical Center. Last updated: 8/08

© 2001-2008 California Pacific Medical Center

Funded by: A generous donation from the Mr. and Mrs. Arthur A. Ciocca Foundation.

Note: This information is not meant to replace any information or personal medical advice which you get directly from your doctor(s). If you have any questions about this information, such as the risks or benefits of the treatment listed, please ask your doctor(s).

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