Excisional Breast Biopsy
Cost: $3,486 USD
Hospitalization duration: 2 days
What is an Excisional Breast Biopsy?
Excisional breast biopsy is a surgical procedure in which a sample of breast tissue is removed for testing. Unlike other types of biopsies, this procedure allows the doctor to remove a significant portion of suspicious tissue or even the entire mass. It is a technique commonly used when there are areas of concern that cannot be diagnosed with a needle biopsy or when more in-depth analysis is needed.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the breast and removes the tissue to send to the pathology lab. This type of biopsy is performed under anesthesia and may require a brief hospital stay for recovery and postoperative monitoring.
Includes
- Medical Team
Specialized breast surgery and oncology staff supervises and performs the procedure, ensuring a safe and efficient process.
- Laboratory
Complete pre-surgical studies that evaluate the patient’s general health, including blood tests and other tests to ensure that the patient is in optimal condition for the intervention.
- Office
Imaging tests such as chest X-ray and breast ultrasound (US), which help to visualize the area of interest and plan the procedure accurately.
- Preoperative evaluation by Internal Medicine + EKG
Complete evaluation by an internist and an electrocardiogram (EKG) to ensure that the patient can undergo surgery without complications.
- Postoperative visits
Follow-up of the recovery process to ensure proper healing and monitor any possible signs of infection or complications.
- Pathology Study
This includes an intraoperative study, performed during surgery to provide preliminary results, and a definitive histopathological report, which is performed afterwards to analyze the removed tissue in detail and obtain an accurate diagnosis.
Preparing for surgery
For excisional breast biopsy, the medical team may tell the patient to:
- Fasting for at least 6 to 8 hours before the procedure.
- Discontinuation of certain medications, especially anticoagulants, to avoid bleeding risks.
- Avoid using cosmetic products or deodorants in the breast area on the day of the procedure, to reduce the risk of infection.
Recovery
Recovery from an excisional breast biopsy is usually quick, although the area may be tender for a few days. It is recommended to:
- Avoid strenuous physical exertion during the first week.
- Keep the wound clean and dry and follow your doctor’s instructions for incision care.
- Apply cold compresses if discomfort or swelling occurs.
Most patients can resume their daily activities within a few days, although it is recommended to avoid any pressure or trauma to the area until complete healing.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with excisional breast biopsy, including:
- Infection at the incision site, which may require treatment with antibiotics.
- Bleeding or bruising in the breast.
- Abnormal scarring or keloids, in rare cases.
The medical team will provide instructions to minimize these risks and ensure optimal recovery.