Vacuum-assisted Breast Biopsy
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Vacuum-assisted breast biopsy is a surgical procedure to remove a lump from your breast. It may be used to diagnose lumps that are small, deep, or cannot be felt. A needle attached to a suction is used to remove tissue from the breast. Caregivers may use an ultrasound with a monitor to guide the procedure.
AFTER YOU LEAVE:
Follow up with your primary healthcare provider or breast specialist as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
- Breast self-exams: Your primary healthcare provider or breast specialist may suggest you do a breast self-exam (BSE) each month to check for changes in your breast tissue. Ask your primary healthcare provider or breast specialist for more information and how to do a BSE.
- Mammogram: Ask when you should have your next mammogram.
Contact your primary healthcare provider or breast specialist if:
- You have a fever.
- You have discharge or pain in the area where the biopsy was done.
- Your skin itches, is swollen, or has a rash.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Seek care immediately or call 911 if:
- The skin around your biopsy area is red, swollen, or has pus.
- You feel something is bulging out of your chest and not going back in.
- You have pain in your chest or armpit that does not go away even after you take pain medicines.
- You have sudden trouble breathing.
- Your shoulder, arm, or fingers tingle, feel numb or cool to the touch, or look blue or pale.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.