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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
# of cores needed with Mammotome biopsys
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
# of cores needed with Mammotome biopsys
by adventuregirl, Jan 30, 2007 12:00AM
Is there a standard number of cores that are normally taken to biopsy a .5-1cm cluster of microcalcifications? If not, what is the typical number taken in this situation? The system I am wondering about is the Mammotome Biopsys (vacuum assisted). The books I have read indicate that 6-12 are usually needed, but one surgeon I talked to said that only 3 were needed. Are the books out of date or is the surgeon mistaken? Do the newest systems use a larger diameter needle? Any other explanation? Any input will be appreciated. Thanks very much.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-rf, Jan 30, 2007 12:00AM
Dear adventuregirl: I have reviewed several sources and there appears to be no “standard” number of samples. Most references state that multiple samples may be taken. I suspect this decision is up to the radiologist doing the procedure based upon the type and size of the abnormality. Here is a web link with a good description of the mammotome procedure. http://www.breastbiopsy.com/mammotome_theprocedure.jsp
Member Comments (2)
by adventuregirl, Jan 31, 2007 12:00AM
To: RN
Thanks for the info.
