Based on the results of your last mammogram, your physician may recommend an area of your breast to be biopsied in order to obtain further information.  This can be accomplished through a technique known as stereotactic Mammotone breast biopsy.
Why a breast biopsy may be necessary?
A change in your breast, such as an abnormality detected by a mammogram or a lump found by you or your doctor, may or may not be cancerous. In order to determine whether an area of concern is malignant (cancerous) or benign (not cancerous), a physician must perform a biopsy. A breast biopsy is the removal of a sample of breast tissue for examination and is the only definitive way to determine if an abnormality is cancerous or not. Fortunately 80% of biopsies result in benign diagnosis.  However, if cancer is present, it is crucial that you know the type and stage of the disease as early as possible. Through early detection and accurate diagnosis, more treatment options are available and a complete recovery is more likely. During a stereotactic Mammotone breast biopsy, small samples of tissue are removed from the breast using a vacuum assisted needle which is precisely guided to the correct location via x-rays and computer coordinates.
Prior to the exam
In order for us to obtain accurate results, it is important for you to carry out the following instructions:

	You may eat a light meal prior to the exam, but try to avoid caffeine as it may make your breast more tender.
	If you take aspirin or blood thinners, please contact your physician to get permission to discontinue the medication three days prior to your appointment. Regular medications should be taken as prescribed. If you have any questions, please call.
	Wear a comfortable two-piece garment.

	During the exam you will lay on your stomach on a specially designed table with your breast placed through an opening in the table top.
	Your breast will be slightly compressed and held in position throughout the procedure.  A series of special mammograms will be precisely located. The area is then anesthetized and the Mammotone probe is used to obtain the tissue samples. You may sense a slight pressure, but you should not experience pain. These tissue samples will be sent to the pathology laboratory for diagnosis. The result will be communicated to your physician within two days.
	During the procedure, you will be informed about what is occurring and what you need to do to assist with the exam. You will be at the hospital for approximately 2 hours including registration. The exam time is approximately 40 minutes plus any time needed after the procedure.