A breast Core Needle Biopsy (CNB)
What is a Breast Core Needle Biopsy (CNB)?
A breast Core Needle Biopsy (CNB) is a procedure used to obtain a sample of breast tissue when an abnormality is suspected. It is a less invasive method than surgical biopsy or vacuum-assisted biopsy. However, our radiologists will indicate the best interventional procedure for your particular case.
What is this diagnostic test used for?
A breast Core Needle Biopsy (CNB) is performed to:
- Diagnose breast cancer: Confirm or rule out the presence of cancerous cells in breast tissue.
- Evaluate abnormalities: Investigate suspicious findings detected on mammograms or ultrasounds, such as nodules or areas of thickening.
- Obtain a sample for analysis: Allow detailed analysis of breast tissue in the laboratory to determine the nature of the abnormality.
Benefits of high technology in breast CNB
Ultrasound guidance in breast CNB allows for precise localization of the lesion, ensuring that the tissue sample is obtained from the correct area, leading to a more accurate diagnosis. Additionally, the radiologist can visualize the needle in real-time, which reduces the risk of complications and makes the procedure safer. Finally, being ultrasound-guided, CNB is less invasive than other types of biopsy, which can result in faster recovery and less discomfort.
How is the procedure?
The breast CNB procedure is relatively quick and effective:
-
Preparation:
Before the procedure, the radiologist reviews the images from imaging tests where the abnormality was described.
-
During the test:
It is performed in the consultation room, while you are lying on the ultrasound bed. The skin will be cleaned with an antiseptic prior to the procedure. Using ultrasound guidance, the lesion is located, and local anesthesia is used, which allows the procedure to be performed without pain, although you may feel some pressure. A thick needle is used, and several samples of breast tissue are obtained. The samples are sent to the pathology laboratory for analysis.
- Marker placement (optional): In some cases, a metallic marker may be placed in the lesion after the procedure. It will be placed following the same entry point and path of the biopsy, using a fine needle, which will release the marker in real-time into the biopsy bed. You will not feel anything, and any imaging test can be performed later without any problem. It is important to know that the marker will remain in the breast unless removal of the lesion is indicated. You will not notice it; it is infinitesimally small.
-
After the test:
Immediately after the procedure, pressure will be applied to the area to stop any bleeding, and you will receive post-procedure care instructions, such as applying cold and subsequent compression. You may experience swelling or mild pain where the biopsy was performed, but these symptoms will disappear in a few days. You can take painkillers if necessary. Furthermore, it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities and intense exertion for the first 24-48 hours. Biopsy results will be available within a week or sooner if indicated as urgent.
Recommendations for the test
- Fasting and preparations: No fasting or special preparations are necessary before the procedure.
- Medications and allergies: It is important to inform us if you are taking any anticoagulant medication or have any allergies. Also, if you have any metal allergies, especially if a metallic marker is to be placed.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It can be performed on pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Post-procedure care: After the procedure, compression of the area and applying ice are recommended; intense physical exertion should also be avoided, and signs of infection and active bleeding should be monitored. It is recommended that you go to the hospital in case of warning signs.
Are there any risks?
In general, it is a safe, minimally invasive, and well-tolerated procedure. As with any medical procedure, there are some risks. The main ones are:
- Bleeding or hematoma: In most cases, it resolves on its own within a few days or weeks. In very exceptional cases, active bleeding may occur that requires surgery to resolve. This risk is higher if the patient is taking anticoagulants or has clotting disorders.
- Infection: It is uncommon, but there is a possibility of infection. Watch for redness of the area, warmth, or fever.
- Pain or discomfort: It is normal to feel discomfort after the procedure; generally, it is controlled with mild analgesics such as paracetamol.
- Skin alterations: A small scar may remain at the puncture site, although it is minimal.
- Pneumothorax (very rare): There is an extremely low risk of pneumothorax, which is the accumulation of air between the lung and the chest wall. This complication is exceptionally rare in breast CNB.
For your test to proceed smoothly, we ask that you arrive in advance of your scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.
Before the test, we will provide you with the Informed Consent form, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
If your appointment is for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metallic objects, prostheses (including dental ones), tattoos, or medication infusion devices, such as insulin pumps.
