Stereotactic biopsy-breast cancer

Hello ladies, 
question for you guys? 
So I had my biopsies, clips put in, mri/mammogram/ct scan and treatment all in place -(IDC Her2+ and in lymph nodes too) start chemo next week.
But other day  I was asked for another clip in lymph node and another biopsy- I was expecting the same biopsy as last time (ultrasound) but it was a core needle (sterotactic one whilst in mammogram . I was just wondering why they do that? I know it won’t alter treatment plan but I wasn’t sure why I’ve had it done if anyone can shed light, thank you

  • Hello, and thanks for your post,

    It is difficult to be very precise as I am not involved in your care but sometimes when there is an area of concern that is seen on the mammogram you may have a stereotactic core biopsy. A sample of tissue is taken using a needle biopsy device connected to a mammogram machine and linked to a computer. This helps locate the exact position of the area to biopsy.

    Images of the breast are taken from two different angles to help guide the needle to the precise location.

    I would talk this through with your breast care nurse so they can explain all of this to you. Diagnosing and treating breast cancer is tailored to each individual patient. 

    I hope that all your treatment goes well.

    If you want to ring and chat with one of the helpline nurses, you are welcome to get back to us.

    The number to ring is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are here Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine