Excision Biopsy of a Breast Lump

An excision biopsy of a breast lump is a surgical procedure where a doctor removes the entire lump or a larger portion of breast tissue for examination under a microscope. This type of biopsy is usually performed when a mammogram, ultrasound, or clinical breast exam has identified a suspicious area in the breast.

Why is an Excision Biopsy Performed?

An excision biopsy is typically recommended when:

• A breast lump is found and cannot be diagnosed with a fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) or core needle biopsy (CNB)
• A previous biopsy result is unclear or suspicious
• A mammogram or ultrasound shows a suspicious area that needs to be further evaluated
• A breast lump is causing symptoms such as pain, nipple discharge, or skin changes

How is an Excision Biopsy Performed?

The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. The patient is given local anesthesia to numb the area around the breast lump
2. A small incision (cut) is made in the skin over the lump, usually about 1-2 inches long
3. The doctor carefully removes the entire lump or a larger portion of breast tissue, taking care not to damage surrounding tissues
4. The removed tissue is sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope
5. The incision is closed with stitches or staples, and a dressing is applied to the area

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with an excision biopsy of a breast lump, including:

• Bleeding or hematoma (collection of blood) at the site of the incision
• Infection
• Scarring or changes in breast shape
• Numbness or tingling in the area around the incision
• Reaction to anesthesia

Recovery and Follow-up

After an excision biopsy, patients can expect:

• Mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising at the site of the incision, which can be managed with pain medication and ice packs
• A follow-up appointment with their doctor to discuss the results of the biopsy and any further treatment options
• Instructions on how to care for the wound and manage any potential complications

Results and Diagnosis

The results of an excision biopsy can take several days to several weeks, depending on the laboratory and the complexity of the case. The doctor will discuss the results with the patient, which may include:

• A diagnosis of benign (non-cancerous) breast condition, such as a cyst or fibroadenoma
• A diagnosis of breast cancer, including the type and stage of cancer
• Recommendations for further treatment, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy

Conclusion

An excision biopsy of a breast lump is an important diagnostic tool that helps doctors determine whether a breast lump is benign or malignant. While the procedure carries some risks and complications, it is generally safe and effective in providing a definitive diagnosis and guiding further treatment options.