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MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Core Breast Biopsy from a Correctional Facility

Based on the results of your last MRI, the radiologist has recommended a core breast biopsy.  This method is used when the area of concern is best seen, or only seen, using MRI.  It can be done through a small incision without using stitches.  Using a hollow core needle, the doctor removes small tissue samples from a specific part of the breast.  The doctor guides the needle to the correct spot using MRI. 

 

Why perform MRI core biopsy?

 

This biopsy removes just enough tissue to make a diagnosis.  It may help to avoid a more extensive surgery.

 

Before the Procedure

 

Correctional facility provider will give the Breast Center nurse a list of all the patient’s prescribed and over-the-counter medicines.  You will need to stop any blood thinner 5 days before the biopsy.  These include:

 

  • Aspirin (Ecotrin®, Excedrin®, Alka-Seltzer®, Anacin®, etc.)
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, Advil®, Motrin®, Aleve®, Nuprin®, naproxen, Naprosyn®, etc.)
  • Vitamin E, Fish, Flaxseed, Omega 3 Oils, Ginger, Ginkgo Biloba, Garlic, and all herbal medicines or teas herbal medicines
  • Warfarin (Coumadin®) – we will work with your doctor to hold these.

 

The Breast Center and MRI department do not provide relaxants or anti-anxiety medicines.  If you feel this is needed, this must be arranged in advance through your facility provider.  Take it as prescribed.  Tell the nurse the name of the medicine, the dose and the time it was taken on the day of your visit.

 

Let us know of any allergies.  This includes: Lidocaine® or any other medicines, metal, or tape.

 

On the day of the biopsy, it is recommended, but not required, that you not eat anything 2 hours before your procedure. This will help prevent nausea and vomiting related to IV contrast (dye).  If you have diabetes or may need to eat for other reasons, please have your facility nurse call the MRI department before your procedure to discuss this.

 

Wear comfortable clothing.  A two-piece outfit is best.

 

Do not wear talcum powder, lotion, or deodorant on your upper body. 

 

 

During the Procedure

 

You will have an IV placed before the MRI.

 

 

You will lie face down on the table on a slight incline.  Your breast will be placed into a holder and held in place with slight compression with a grid paddle.  You will be placed feet first into the MRI scanner.  A dye (contrast) will be given into an IV during the scan.  When it is given, you may feel coolness at the IV site and in the arm.  The dye helps produce stronger, clearer images, and highlights the area to be biopsied. 

 

You will be brought out of the MRI tube so the doctor can start the biopsy.  Your breast will be numbed with LidocaineÒ.  You will feel a sting, but our goal is that you not feel any pain after this is given.  You may feel pressure during the procedure.  If you feel pain, let the staff know so that we can help lessen any discomfort or pain.

 

Once your breast is numb, a small nick will be made in your breast and a plastic catheter will be placed to mark the area to be biopsied.  You will be placed in the scanner again.  Pictures will be taken to assure this plastic catheter is in the correct spot.  You will again be brought out of the MRI scanner and a needle will be placed where the plastic catheter is.

 

You will hear a buzzing noise from the biopsy machine as the samples are removed.  Several cores of tissue are taken.  The samples will be sent to pathology.  You will then be scanned again.

 

After the biopsy, a small titanium marker will be placed in the breast.  It will be seen on future images.  There are no known risks with having the marker.  You do not need to worry about metal detectors or future MRI procedures, as titanium is not affected by this type of equipment.

 

The needle will be removed from your breast.  There may be slight bleeding.  Pressure will be applied until it stops.  The site will be covered with thin strips of tape (Steri-strips) and a gauze dressing.  A cold pack will be placed on the site.

 

A final mammogram in the Breast Center will be performed to check for marker placement and assure the biopsy went as planned.

 

Care after the Biopsy

 

  • Keep the gauze bandage in place for 24 hours.  The steri-strips will loosen and come off on their own in about 7 days.  If they are still in place after 7 days, you may gently peel them off.

 

  • You will be given a cold pack to reduce the swelling and help with pain.  Use a cold pack or ice 3 times for 15-20 minutes each time for the rest of the day.

 

  • You may take Tylenol® every 4-6 hours as needed for pain for the first 24 hours (unless you have liver disease).  If you take Coumadin®, aspirin, or other blood thinners, resume taking them the next day, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

 

  • You may shower after 24 hours.  Gently, pat the steri-strips dry.  No soaking in a bath or pool for 48 hours.

 

  • Mild bruising can occur, but should go away in 5-7 days.

 

  • For the first 24 hours, wear a bra for support and avoid vigorous arm movements and heavy lifting.  If you wish, you may return to work and most activities the next day.

 

  • If you notice any excess swelling, bleeding, drainage, redness, or heat at the biopsy site or have a fever, please tell your facility nurse or doctor.

 

The final results of the test should be available in about 3-4 working days.  Your facility provider will give you the results.

 



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 04/21/2009

Copyright © 04/21/2009 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #6890

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