What should you know about stereotactic biopsy?

The clinician first identifies the target on imaging and calculates a safe route. Guidance may be used for a brain lesion, a breast abnormality or another area where the target cannot be felt or seen directly. Several small samples can be taken through the planned route and labelled for pathology.

The laboratory examines the cells and may determine whether they are benign or malignant, how they are classified and which further tests are useful. Additional work can include [Immunohistochemistry](/technology/immunohistochemistry/) or [Genomic Tumour Profiling](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/genomic-tumour-profiling/). A stereotactic approach does not itself mean that cancer is present.

Give the team a complete medicine list, especially anticoagulants and antiplatelet medicines, and mention allergies, bleeding conditions and pregnancy possibility. Follow their instructions for food, drink and transport. The approach may use local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the site.

Rest as advised after the procedure and keep the wound or dressing protected. Ask when normal activity can resume and how the result will be shared. The wider [Biopsy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/biopsy/) guide explains the purpose of tissue sampling, while an [MRI Scan](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/mri-scan/) may help with planning or follow-up.

Get urgent medical help for uncontrolled bleeding, fainting, breathing trouble, severe or escalating pain, spreading redness, fever, or fluid leaking from the wound. Following a brain procedure, treat a seizure, new weakness, worsening confusion, severe headache or repeated vomiting as an emergency.

Where is the target and why is stereotactic guidance helpful? How will you keep the sampling route safe? What anaesthetic or sedation is planned? How many samples may be collected? When will the pathology discussion happen, and could further marker or genomic tests change the treatment plan?