Breast Tissue Biopsy in Dubai

What is a Breast Tissue biopsy? 

A breast tissue biopsy involves removing a small amount of breast tissue, which is then looked at under a microscope. It is a common procedure carried out in the outpatient setting. 

What are the indications for a Breast Tissue Biopsy? 

A breast tissue biopsy is usually recommended after breast imaging has shown something different or unusual in the breast. This might be after a mammogram or a breast ultrasound scan and most women will have a benign (non-cancerous) finding. In some women, a diagnosis of breast cancer may be confirmed and this test provides the information to move forward with treatment in a timely manner. 

What are the different types of Breast Tissue Biopsy? 

Core Needle Breast Biopsy is usually performed by a Breast Radiologist under ultrasound guidance, although it can be performed in the clinic for larger palpable lumps. Sometimes it is necessary to do the biopsy using the mammogram machine as a guide, and this is known as a Stereotactic Guided Core Needle Breast Biopsy. 

Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) involves using a thin needle on a syringe to remove fluid and cells from the breast tissue. This is commonly known as aspiration and is routinely used to drain larger cysts. 

Incisional breast biopsy involves a small operation to remove part of the area of abnormal cells. It is not commonly used but can be helpful when more information is needed. 

Excisional breast biopsy involves an operation to remove all the abnormal cells if the previous biopsy was non-diagnostic and concern remains. 

What is the Preparation for a Breast Tissue Biopsy? 

If you are taking any medication to thin your blood or any supplements, please let us know before the test so we can advise you about whether to take it. If you have any allergies, especially to anaesthesia of any type, please let us know this too. 

On the day of the test, please avoid using any deodorant, powders, lotions, creams, or perfumes in your armpits as this can interfere with the interpretation of the breast imaging. Be sure to pop it in your bag though, so you can put it on as soon as you finish the test. Please bring a soft supportive bra (no wire) to wear after the procedure. 

What Happens During a Breast Tissue Biopsy? 

Once you arrive, you will be welcomed at the reception desk where you check-in and complete a questionnaire. You will then go through to the Breast unit where you will be given a gown to change into. You will need to remove any necklaces and clothing from the waist up.  

During the procedure, you will lie on your side on the examination couch. Our female Consultant Breast Radiologist will numb the area with local anaesthetic and then apply warmed, water-based gel to your skin. She will use a wand, called a transducer, over the skin to identify the area to take the sample from. The breast tissue sampling only takes a few minutes and the whole procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.  

What Happens After a Breast Tissue Biopsy? 

You will have a small dressing and will be given an ice pack to place in your bra to help reduce any swelling. All follow up care is detailed in a written information sheet which you will be given before leaving the unit.  

It usually takes about 5-10 days to receive the results and these will be sent to your referring Physician, who will discuss the outcome with you.