Diagnostic Evaluation
We feature the first all-digital mammography facility in the country, augmented by ultrasound and other imaging modalities. Definitive diagnosis of most breast problems can be made with stereotactic or ultrasound-guided needle biopsy - an accurate and less invasive method. All imaging and biopsy services are available on site.
At the Center, pathologists with years of clinical and research experience in breast cancer evaluate biopsy specimens and tissues. Their expert findings guide Surgical and Medical Oncologists in making crucial treatment decisions.
Comparing Types of Biopsies
Open Surgical |
Needle |
|||
Excisional |
Single Insertion/ |
Core Needle |
Fine Needle Aspiration |
|
| Description | Cut is made in the breast to remove the entire tumor | Tissue sample is taken with a needle using gentle suction, which draws, cuts and removes tissue. | Tissue sample taken with a needle using a spring-loaded device, which cuts and removed tissue. | Tissue sample is taken using a thinner needle than a core needle. |
| Accuracy | Highly accurate | Highly accurate | Accurate | Less accurate |
| Scarring | External scar. Can change the look and feel of the breast. | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal |
| Anesthesia | General (asleep) or local with sedation | Local (awake) | Local (awake) | None |
Location where procedure is generally performed |
Operating room or outpatient setting | Doctor’s office or outpatient setting | Doctor’s office or outpatient setting | Doctor’s office |
| Consideration | Requires time to heal from surgery. Greater chance for infection and bruising than needle biopsy. | May not remove enough tissue for a definite diagnosis. | ||