Experience of stereotactic breast biopsy using the vacuum-assisted core needle biopsy device and the advanced breast biopsy instrumentation system in Hong Kong women.

Background: Stereotactic breast biopsy of non-palpable lesions using the vacuum-assisted core needle biopsy (CNB) device and the large core excision biopsy system is a reliable biopsy method when compared with open biopsy. Its use in Western countries is well accepted. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and results of using these systems to perform stereotactic biopsy in Asian women.

Methods: A total of 114 patients with non-palpable mammographic lesions underwent stereotactic breast biopsy using the vacuum-assisted CNB device and the large core excision biopsy system between November 1999 and December 2002. The indications for biopsy were mammographic abnormalities considered indeterminate or suspicious that were not palpable or visible on ultrasound. The methods adopted for biopsy in Asian women were reviewed and the results including the final pathology, complications, scarring and acceptance by patients were recorded.

Results: Stereotactic breast biopsy was performed using the vacuum-assisted CNB device in 107 patients and the large core excision biopsy system in seven patients. Of those who underwent biopsy using the vacuum-assisted CNB device, 15 (14%) had moderate to severe bleeding during the procedure and seven (6.5%) had severe bruising afterwards. Carcinoma was detected in 31 of the 114 patients (27.2%).

Conclusion: Although Asian women in general have smaller and denser breasts than their Western counterparts, stereotactic breast biopsy using the vacuum-assisted CNB device and the large core excision biopsy system was feasible with modification of the individual steps during the procedure. Our results are comparable with those published previously and the procedure was well accepted by patients.