Although 80 percent of breast biopsies are not cancerous, a diagnosis must be made on every suspicious finding. Although most patients with symptoms don’t require a biopsy, when a biopsy is necessary approximately four out of five are benign. The Betty Torricelli Institute for Breast Care offers every diagnostic tool available. Your radiologist, surgeon, and a team of on-site pathologists work together to interpret and diagnose test results as quickly as possible. Services include:

Breast Ultrasound
A diagnostic tool, used in combination with mammography and breast exam, that offers additional information regarding a clinical or radiographic question.

Cyst Aspiration
Using a skinny needle, fluid is removed from a sac within the breast. If necessary, the fluid can be sent for analysis. In most cases, the fluid is determined to be benign, and no further testing is necessary.

Fine Needle Aspiration
Using a skinny needle, cells are removed from an area of the breast and then examined by the pathologist.

Core Biopsy
Tissue is removed from the breast that is then examined by the pathologist. When done stereotactically, the mammotome biopsy system is used.

A cyst aspiration, FNA, and core biopsy can be performed by the surgeon if the area is palpable (can be felt). When the area is not palpable, the procedure is performed with ultrasonographic, mammographic, or stereotactic guidance.