Breast Biopsy: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Breast cancer

Hello Dr.
Wu: I have a 6 cm lump in my right breast that has been present for about a year.
I have been seeing a traditional Chinese medicine doctor and taking herbal medicine.
Recently, in the past three months, I have started to experience bleeding and pus discharge.
The traditional Chinese medicine doctor believes this is a normal detoxification process.
I am a bit worried and would like to undergo a biopsy for further evaluation.
How large will the biopsy incision be? Will I need to be hospitalized? Are there any potential complications? How long does it typically take for the biopsy wound to heal? So far, I have not consulted any Western medicine.
What would be the most appropriate course of action? Thank you.

Meili, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/09/19

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Mrs.
Mei Li,
Based on your description, my recommendation is to undergo a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Once the diagnosis is established, we can then decide on the appropriate treatment method.
Many of my patients have successfully combined both Western and traditional Chinese medicine in their treatment.
The biopsy procedure does not require a large incision and the stitches can be removed in about 7-10 days.
Without a definitive diagnosis, any treatment may be subject to inaccuracies or inadequacies.

Wishing you peace and health,
Dr.
Wu

Reply Date: 2006/09/19

More Info

Understanding breast biopsy is crucial for anyone experiencing breast abnormalities, such as lumps or unusual discharge. A breast biopsy is a medical procedure that involves removing a small sample of breast tissue for examination under a microscope. This is typically done to determine whether a lump is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Types of Breast Biopsies
There are several types of breast biopsies, each with its own procedure and indications:
1. Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): This is a minimally invasive procedure where a thin needle is used to extract fluid or tissue from a lump. It can be done in an outpatient setting and usually does not require anesthesia.

2. Core Needle Biopsy (CNB): In this procedure, a larger needle is used to remove a small cylinder of tissue. This method provides more tissue for analysis than FNA and is also typically performed under local anesthesia.

3. Surgical (Open) Biopsy: This involves making an incision in the breast to remove a larger tissue sample. It is usually performed in a surgical setting and may require general anesthesia, especially if the lump is deep or large.

4. Stereotactic Biopsy: This is a specialized type of biopsy that uses imaging guidance (like mammography) to locate the area of concern in the breast. It can be performed using either FNA or CNB techniques.

What to Expect During a Breast Biopsy
If you are considering a biopsy due to a 6 cm lump that has been discharging fluid, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in breast health. They will likely recommend imaging studies, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, to assess the lump further before proceeding with a biopsy.

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Preparation for the Procedure
1. Consultation: Your doctor will discuss the procedure, its risks, and benefits. They may perform a physical examination and review your medical history.

2. Imaging: Prior to the biopsy, imaging tests may be conducted to locate the lump accurately.

3. Anesthesia: Depending on the type of biopsy, local or general anesthesia will be administered to minimize discomfort.

4. Post-Procedure Care: After the biopsy, you will be monitored for a short period. Instructions will be provided regarding wound care and activity restrictions.

Recovery and Aftercare
- Wound Size: The size of the incision will depend on the type of biopsy performed. FNA and CNB typically leave minimal scarring, while surgical biopsies may leave a larger scar.

- Hospital Stay: Most biopsies can be performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you will not need to stay in the hospital overnight. However, surgical biopsies may require a short hospital stay.

- Healing Time: Recovery time varies. FNA and CNB usually have a quick recovery, while surgical biopsies may take longer to heal, typically a week or two.
- Potential Complications: While complications are rare, they can include bleeding, infection, or changes in breast shape or sensitivity. Discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Next Steps
Given your symptoms of bleeding and discharge, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. While traditional Chinese medicine may provide some benefits, it is essential to have a comprehensive evaluation by a Western medicine specialist, particularly in cases where there are concerning symptoms like yours.

In summary, a breast biopsy is a vital step in diagnosing breast conditions. It is essential to follow through with the recommended procedures and consult with healthcare professionals to ensure the best care for your health.

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