Ultrasound & Biopsy

After a diagnosic mammogram, when you or a physician have detected a lump in your breast or if you are experiencing abnormal nipple discharge, breast ultrasounds are usually performed. The ultrasound can help determine whether a breast mass is a fluid-filled non-cancerous cyst or a solid mass that could either be cancerous or non-cancerous. 

Ultrasound-guided Core Needle Breast Biopsy

Sometimes it's necessary to do a biopsy of the breast to determine whether or not an abnormality is cancerous. When you arrive at the Breast Imaging Center, you will be guided to a comfortable room with dim lighting, where the physician will perform your core needle biopsy. This step eliminates the cost and discomfort of having an open biopsy in a hospital operating room. The procedure only takes approximately 30 minutes and most patients experience significantly less discomfort than an open biopsy. Please note that it is not necessary to take an entire day off from your daily activities due to this procedure, though you may feel some soreness afterward.

IMPORTANT: When scheduling your biopsy, it is important that you notify the staff if you are taking blood thinners, Aspirin or NSAIDs/anti-inflammatory medications. Examples: Warfarin, Coumadin, Xarelto, Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Meloxicam

Stereotactic Core Needle Breast Biopsy

Sometimes it's necessary to do a biopsy of the breast to determine whether or not an abnormality is cancerous. A stereotactic core needle breast biopsy is usually done if a cluster of microcalcifications (tiny calcium deposits) show up on your annual screening mammogram or if a mass shows up on your mammogram that is not detectable by ultrasound. Physicians at St. Joseph Breast Imaging Center will perform the biopsy using our advanced stereotactic equipment to provide you with a quick and precise biopsy.

This procedure usually takes about an hour to complete but may take longer if multiple areas are being sampled.

Preparation: On the day of the biopsy, please wear a two-piece outfit and either a tight-fitting bra or a sports bra for additional support after the proceedure. 

IMPORTANT: When scheduling your biopsy, it is important that you notify the staff if you are taking blood thinners, Aspirn or NSAIDs/anti-inflammatory medications. Examples: Warfarin, Coumadin, Xarelto, Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Meloxicam.

Bone Densitometry

What is a Bone Density Scan?

A bone density scan is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure calcium in the spine and hips. This procedure is usually performed to detect osteoporosis, a condition that causes thinning and brittleness of the bone. Though osteoporosis commonly affects post-menopausal women, it can also affect men and can be due to a variety of factors. St. Joseph Breast Imaging Center utilizes a widely used bone density bed to perform your scan in the comfort of a cozy, dimly lit room. These can even be done on the same day as your mammogram as an added convenience.