Following mammogram and ultrasound, the radiologist may suggest a biopsy. These biopsy procedures are scheduled by the nurses/technologists working in radiology and are often scheduled the same day. The nurses/technologists in radiology will review all pre-procedure instructions for patients. All biopsies are sent to the lab for review. Results are usually available within three working days.

There are two types of biopsies in radiology.

• Core biopsy under ultrasound guidance – recommended for patients with breast lumps that are identified on ultrasound or mammogram. The technician and radiologist identify the abnormal area, inject numbing medication, and insert a needle to take several samples of the abnormal area.

• Core biopsy under stereotactic guidance – recommended when there are clusters of micro-calcifications (may indicate early breast problem) or other abnormal areas identified on mammogram. Patients lie on their stomach for this procedure and the breast tissue is directed through an opening in the table. Using computerised assistance, the abnormal area is identified, numbing medicine is injected, and a needle is inserted to take several samples of the abnormal area.