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Questions and Answers about Mammotome®
What is a Mammotome®?
The Mammotome® Biopsy System is an alternative to traditional surgical breast biopsy for obtaining tissue samples from the breast. State-of-the-art equipment has dramatically improved the accuracy of needle breast biopsies by allowing the radiologist to pinpoint the location of the breast abnormality in three dimensions and obtain tissue samples. The samples are examined by a pathologist and a report is then given to your physician.
How do I prepare for a Mammotome®?
In preparation for your Mammotome®, we ask that you:
- Not use any deodorant or powders on your underarms or breasts.
- Wear a blouse, T-shirt or sweater with a skirt or pants. Do not wear a dress or jumpsuit. You will be asked to undress from the waist up.
- Notify your referring physician at least one week prior to your appointment if you are taking anticoagulant (coumadin, aspirin, or other blood thinner) medication. The dose may have to be adjusted.
- Take medication as instructed by your physician.
- You may eat a light breakfast such as juice, coffee and toast.
How is the procedure performed?
During the procedure, you will be lying on a padded table that has an open area allowing your breast to hang below your body. The entire procedure will take place below the table, out of your view. Your breast will be compressed, as it is during a mammography examination. The breast abnormality is imaged on a computer screen. The area to be biopsied will then be numbed with a local anesthetic. Once the computer is programmed, the needle will be positioned and inserted into your breast to obtain tissue samples. After the biopsy, a pressure dressing will be held on the needle puncture site. The entire procedure will take approximately one hour.
A radiologist and technologist will be with you throughout the procedure. Please feel free to ask any questions before and during the examination.
What do I need to do after the procedure is completed?
- Apply an ice back over the dressing 20 minutes on, two hours off until you go to bed tonight. The ice pack will minimize the discomfort and bruising.
- You may take Tylenol or ibuprofen for discomfort. No aspirin for 48 hours.
- Avoid strenuous exercise and lifting of heavy objects for 24 hours.
- Do not shower or bathe tonight.
The day after your biopsy:
- Remove the pressure dressing, but leave the Steri-StripTM in place. You may gently bathe your breast with mild soap and water, being careful not to loosen the Ster-StripTM. You do not need to reapply a dressing unless the area is irritated by your bra or clothing. Do not use peroxide or medicated ointments on biopsy site unless instructed by your physician.
- Remove the Steri-StripTM two days after the biopsy.
- If bleeding occurs, apply pressure until it stops. If bleeding persists, call your doctor.
