What is Core Needle Biopsy?
A core needle biopsy is a percutaneous (“through the skin”) procedure that involves removing small samples of breast tissue using a hollow “core” needle. For palpable (able to be felt) lesions, this is accomplished by fixing the lesion with one hand and performing a freehand needle biopsy with the other. In the case of non-palpable lesions (those unable to be felt), stereotactic mammography or ultrasound image guidance is used. Stereotactic mammography uses computers to pinpoint the exact location of a breast mass based on mammograms (x-rays) taken from two different angles. The computer coordinates will help the physician to guide the needle to the correct area in the breast. With ultrasound, the radiologist or surgeon will watch the needle on the ultrasound monitor to help guide it to the area of concern. The needle used during core needle biopsy is larger than the needle used with FNA (usually a 16, 14, or 11 gauge needle is used with the core needle biopsy procedure). The core need
