What should you know about mammotome vacuum assisted biopsy?

The breast is numbed with local anaesthetic. Imaging, often ultrasound or mammography, guides the device to the area being assessed. Gentle suction draws tissue into the sampling chamber, allowing multiple specimens through one small skin opening. A marker may be left at the site so it can be found on later images; this does not usually prevent future scans or treatment.

The tissue is examined by a laboratory. The report may describe whether the sample is benign, shows an abnormal change, or contains cancer, and may include features that help guide treatment. Sometimes the result does not fully explain the imaging finding and further assessment is recommended.

Tell the clinic about blood-thinning medicines, allergies, bleeding problems, pregnancy, and difficulty lying in position. Follow the appointment instructions about medicines and eating. Wear a supportive bra if advised. Mild bruising, swelling, or tenderness can occur afterwards; use the pain relief recommended by your team and keep the dressing dry as instructed. Avoid strenuous activity until the clinic says it is suitable.

Contact the biopsy service if bleeding continues despite firm pressure, the wound becomes increasingly red or hot, pain worsens instead of settling, or you develop fever or discharge. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, fainting, or difficulty breathing. Keep your result appointment because the laboratory finding must be interpreted alongside the images and examination.

Ask which imaging method will guide the biopsy, whether your medicines need adjustment, when results are expected, whether a marker will be placed, and what happens if the result does not match the scan.