Receiving news that something unusual has shown up on your breast scan can feel like the ground has shifted beneath your feet. The words “biopsy” may sound daunting, but let’s take a deep breath together. A biopsy is simply a way for your doctor to understand what’s happening inside your body—so that the right care can begin, if needed.
Today, let’s gently walk you through two types of breast biopsies —
MRI-guided
and
stereotactic
— and help you understand when each one may be recommended, especially in the journey of breast cancer detection and care.
What Is a Biopsy?
A
biopsy
is a simple medical procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from the breast to examine under a microscope. This helps doctors confirm whether a suspicious area is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
There are different ways to do this, depending on what shows up on your scans. Two of the most trusted and advanced options today are
MRI-guided biopsy
and
stereotactic biopsy
.
What Is an MRI-Guided Biopsy?
An
MRI-guided biopsy
uses the powerful imaging of an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machine to find the exact spot that needs to be sampled. This is especially helpful when the area of concern doesn’t appear clearly on a mammogram or ultrasound, but is visible on an MRI.
When is it chosen?
• When the abnormality is seen only on an MRI and not on other imaging tests.
• When there are multiple areas of concern seen on the MRI.
• When the area is very deep inside the breast or difficult to reach with other methods.
The MRI-Guided Biopsy Experience
You’ll lie face down in an MRI scanner with your breast gently positioned in a cushioned opening. The process is very precise and done with great care to minimise discomfort. It usually takes about an hour.
What Is a Stereotactic Biopsy?
A
stereotactic biopsy
is guided by mammography, using X-ray images taken from two different angles to pinpoint the abnormality. It’s commonly used to biopsy tiny calcium deposits (called microcalcifications) or masses that are best seen on a mammogram.
When is it chosen?
• When the area of concern is clearly visible on a mammogram but not on an ultrasound.
• When the doctor suspects microcalcifications that need closer examination.
• When the area is small and not felt by hand.
The Stereotactic Biopsy Experience
You’ll lie on a special table, or sometimes sit in a chair, while your breast is gently compressed (like during a mammogram). It’s a quick, focused procedure that usually takes about 30–45 minutes.
So, Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between MRI-guided and stereotactic biopsy depends on where and how the abnormal area shows up on imaging tests. It’s not about one being “better” than the other — it’s about what’s most accurate and safest for your unique situation.
Think of it like this: different situations call for different tools. Your doctor, radiologist, and care team will look at all your imaging results and discuss which option gives you the clearest answers with the least discomfort.
Dr. Pragati Singhal
