Best Practice Guidelines for Breast Imaging, Breast Imaging Society, India: Part—2

Breast imaging is a prerequisite for providing high quality breast health care. Choosing the appropriate investigation is central to diagnosing breast disease in patients who present to health professionals for treatment. These patients present to doctors of different subspecialties as well as to general practitioners in our country. It is important, therefore, to provide uniform guidance to doctors in different healthcare setups of our country, urban and rural, government and private, for optimal management of breast diseases. These guidelines framed by the task group set up by the Breast Imaging Society, India, have been formulated focusing primarily on the Indian patients and health care infrastructures. They aim to provide a framework for the referring doctors and practicing radiologists to enable them to choose the appropriate investigation for patients with breast symptoms and signs. The aim has been to keep this framework simple and practical so that it can guide not only subspecialists in breast care but also help doctors who do not routinely deal with breast diseases, so that breast cancer is not missed. Overall, the aim of this document is to provide a holistic approach to standardize breast care imaging services in India. Part 2 of these guidelines focuses on the best practice principles for breast interventions and provides algorithms for the investigation of specific common breast symptoms and signs. Ultrasound is the preferred imaging modality for image-guided breast interventions due to real-time needle visualization, easy availability, patient comfort and absence of radiation. Stereotactic mammography guided procedures are performed if the lesion is visualized on mammography but not visualized on ultrasound. 14-gauge automated core biopsy device is preferred for breast biopsies although vacuum assisted biopsy devices are useful for biopsy of certain abnormalities as well as for imaging guided excision of some pathologies. MRI guided biopsy is reserved for suspicious lesions seen only on MRI. Algorithms for investigation of patients presenting with mastalgia, breast lumps, suspicious nipple discharge, infections and inflammation of the breast have been provided. For early breast cancers routine use of investigations to detect occult distant metastasis is not advised. Metastatic work up for advanced breast cancer is required for selection of appropriate treatment options.

The Effectiveness of Dexmedetomidine in Vacuum-Assisted Breast Biopsy Under Monitored Anesthesia Care / 고신대학교의과대학학술지

OBJECTIVES: Vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB) is a widely used technique for the diagnosis of breast lesions. It is carried out with local anesthesia, but procedural pain and stress are still problematic. Dexmedetomidine is a α-2 receptor agonist that can sedate without significant respiratory depression. The study aimed to report the effectiveness of sedation with monitored anesthesia care (MAC) using dexmedetomidine in VABB. METHODS: This was a retrospective chart review of patients who received VABB under MAC with dexmedetomidine. Forty-seven patients during the period of February 2015 to July 2016 were included. We collected data on patient characteristics, infusion drug and dose, induction to incision time, anesthetic, operation, and recovery time and other complications and vital signs. RESULTS: The mean operating time was 50.1 ± 24.9 minutes, and the anesthetic time was 71.2 ± 28.3 minutes. The mean time from induction to incision was 17.0 ± 5.2 minutes, and the recovery time was 20.1 ± 10.3 minutes. None of the patients needed an advanced airway management. Further, none of them showed hemodynamic instability. CONCLUSIONS: VABB was successfully performed with MAC using dexmedetomidine, and there was no respiratory depression or hemodynamic instability.

Experiencia inicial en biopsias mamarias bajo guía mamográfica digital con sistema de vacío / Initial experience with vacuum assisted breast biopsies under stereotactic guidance

Objetivos Describir la experiencia inicial en el uso de un sistema de biopsia por vacío con guía estereotáxica digital para lesiones mamarias. Material y método Se evaluaron retrospectivamente las biopsias bajo estereotaxia mamográfica con sistema de vacío (bav) realizadas en el Centro de Imagenología Mamaria (imad) de la ciudad de Bahía Blanca desde marzo de 2016 a julio de 2017. En el período analizado, se recibieron 329 pedidos de punción, de los cuales 112 correspondieron a biopsias bajo estereotaxia mamográfica con sistema de vacío y 217 a biopsias bajo ecografía. Se realizaron 99/112 (89%) bav, no pudiéndose completar el procedimiento en 13/112 (11%) de los casos. Resultados Se obtuvieron los siguientes resultados patológicos: 20% (20/99) Maligno, 7% (7/99) Alto riesgo y 73% (72/99) Benigno. Se produjeron complicaciones leves que no requirieron ningún tipo de tratamiento posterior en el 8% de los casos: 7/99 reacción vasovagal y 1/99 dolor que dificultó el procedimiento, aunque en todos los casos se pudo finalizar el mismo. Conclusiones Se diagnosticaron lesiones malignas o de alto riesgo en el 27% de los procedimientos realizados.

Objectives To describe our initial experience with vacuum assisted breast biopsies under stereotactic guidance for non-palpable lesions. Materials and method We retrospectively review the vacuum assisted breast biopsies performed at Centro de Imagenología Mamaria (imad) between march 2016 and july 2017. 329 patients requested a breast biopsy. Of them, 112 were vacuum assisted biopsies under stereotactic guidance and 217 were ultrasound guided. We succesfully completed 99/112 (89%) of vacuum assisted biopsies, not being able to reach the target in the remaining 11%. Results The following pathological results were obtained: 20% (20/99) Malignant, 7% (7/99) High risk and 73% (72/99) Benign lesions. Minor complications, which did not require any further treatment, occurred in 8% of cases: 7/99 vasovagal reactions, 1/99 pain during the procedure. Conclusions Malignant and high-risk lesions were diagnosed in 27% of the procedures performed.

CORRELATION BETWEEN ULTRASONOGRAPHIC FEATURES AND HISTOPATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS OF BREAST LESIONS IN BIOPSIES / Correlação entre características ultrassonográficas e achados histopatológicos de lesões mamárias em biópsias

Imaging exams are fundamental tools to characterize palpable lesions and to early detect those not identified on the physical examination. However, the correct interpretation of these findings should be done by correlating them with the probable histological diagnosis of the lesion, and performing the appropriate treatment in a timely manner. The Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BIRADS®) is the system used for this association, which characterizes the findings in mammography, ultrasonography and mammary magnetic resonance images, classifying them according to the probability of malignancy. Objective: To correlate imaging features of breast nodules, evidenced by ultrasonography and classified according to BIRADS®, with the histopathological examination results of material obtained through thick needle biopsy of patients from the mastology ambulatory of the Maternity School Assis Chateaubriand that confirm this predictive value of the imaging examination and the impact on surgical indications. Results: We analyzed 110 patient's medical records that fit the inclusion criteria and found that more than 97% of lesions with low suspicion of malignancy, BIRADS® 4A, presented a benign histopathological result. However, all patients with images of nodules with high suspicion of malignancy had histopathological diagnosis of invasive carcinoma. In conclusion, the ultrasonographic features of breast lesions have high predictive value in the final diagnosis of the lesion, supporting the decision of conduct in adequate time in each situation.

Os exames de imagem são ferramentas fundamentais na caracterização de lesões palpáveis e na detecção precoce daquelas não identificadas ao exame físico. Porém, é necessária a interpretação correta desses achados, correlacionando com o provável diagnóstico histológico da lesão, realizando tratamento adequado e em tempo certo. O Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BIRADS®) é o sistema utilizado para essa relação, caracterizando os achados em imagens de mamografia, ultrassonografia e ressonância magnética mamária e classificando-os de acordo com a probabilidade de malignidade. Objetivo: Correlacionar características imagenológicas de nodulações mamárias, evidenciadas por ultrassonografia e classificadas de acordo com o BIRADS®, com os resultados dos exames histopatológicos de material obtido através de biópsia de agulha grossa de pacientes do ambulatório de mastologia da Maternidade Escola Assis Chateaubriand, confirmando esse valor preditivo do exame de imagem e o impacto nas indicações cirúrgicas. Resultados: Foram analisados 110 prontuários de pacientes que se encaixavam nos critérios de inclusão e constatou-se que mais de 97% das lesões com baixa suspeição de malignidade, BIRADS® 4A, apresentaram resultado benigno no exame histopatológico. Entretanto, todas as pacientes com imagens de nódulos com alta suspeição de malignidade tiveram diagnóstico histopatológico de carcinoma invasor. Pode-se concluir que as características ultrassonográficas das lesões mamárias têm alto valor preditivo no diagnóstico final da lesão, fundamentando a decisão de conduta em tempo adequado em cada situação.

Hemostasis with balloon urinary catheter after vacuum-assisted breast biopsy / 中华内分泌外科杂志

Objective To evaluate the hemostasis effect of balloon urinary catheter after vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB).Methods From May.2016 to May.2017,270 patients undergoing VABB were randomized into study group (135 cases) and control group (135cases).Patients in the study group received VABB postoperative indwelling catheter balloon hemostasis,while patients in the control group received VABB postoperative conventional thoracic pressure bandage to stop bleeding.Postoperative bleeding and hematoma were recorded and compared between the two groups.Results The rates of postoperative bleeding and hematoma in the study group were significantly lower than that in the control group (6.7％ vs 16.3％,P＜0.05;8.9％ vs 24.4％,P＜0.05).Among patients with lesions ≤ 1.5 cm,the rates of postoperative bleeding and hematoma were 1.6％ and 4.7％ in the study group,and 6.5％ and 8.1％ in the control group.There was no significant difference between the two group (P＞0.05).Among patients with lesions ＞1.5 cm,the rates of postoperative bleeding and hematoma in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group (11.3％ vs 24.7％,P＜0.05;12.7％ vs 32.9％,P＜0.05).Conclusion Hemostasis with balloon urinary catheter is a safe and effective method for postoperative bleeding and hematoma control after VABB.

Image guided versus palpation guided core needle biopsy of palpable breast masses: a prospective study.

Background & objectives: Biopsy of palpable breast masses can be performed manually by palpation guidance or under imaging guidance. Based on retrospective studies, image guided biopsy is considered more accurate than palpation guided breast biopsy; however, these techniques have not been compared prospectively. We conducted this prospective study to verify the superiority and determine the size of beneficial effect of image guided biopsy over palpation guided biopsy. Methods: Over a period of 18 months, 36 patients each with palpable breast masses were randomized into palpation guided and image guided breast biopsy arms. Ultrasound was used for image guidance in 33 patients and mammographic (stereotactic) guidance in three patients. All biopsies were performed using 14 gauge automated core biopsy needles. Inconclusive, suspicious or imaging-histologic discordant biopsies were repeated. Results: Malignancy was found in 30 of 36 women in palpation guided biopsy arm and 27 of 36 women in image guided biopsy arm. Palpation guided biopsy had sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 46.7, 100, 100, 27.3 per cent, respectively, for diagnosing breast cancer. Nineteen of 36 women (52.8%) required repeat biopsy because of inadequate samples (7 of 19), suspicious findings (2 of 19) or imaging-histologic discordance (10 of 19). On repeat biopsy, malignancy was found in all cases of imaging-histologic discordance. Image guided biopsy had 96.3 per cent sensitivity and 100 per cent specificity. There was no case of inadequate sample or imaging-histologic discordance with image guided biopsy. Interpretation & conclusions: Our results showed that in palpable breast masses, image guided biopsy was superior to palpation guided biopsy in terms of sensitivity, false negative rate and repeat biopsy rates.

Retrieval Rate and Accuracy of Ultrasound-Guided 14-G Semi-Automated Core Needle Biopsy of Breast Microcalcifications

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the retrieval rate and accuracy of ultrasound (US)-guided 14-G semi-automated core needle biopsy (CNB) for microcalcifications in the breast. MATERIALS AND METHODS: US-guided 14-G semi-automated CNB procedures and specimen radiography were performed for 33 cases of suspicious microcalcifications apparent on sonography. The accuracy of 14-G semi-automated CNB and radiology-pathology concordance were analyzed and the microcalcification characteristics between groups with successful and failed retrieval were compared. RESULTS: Thirty lesions were successfully retrieved and the microcalcification retrieval rate was 90.9% (30/33). Thirty lesions were successfully retrieved. Twenty five were finally diagnosed as malignant (10 invasive ductal carcinoma, 15 ductal carcinoma in situ [DCIS]) and five as benign. After surgery and mammographic follow-up, the 25 malignant lesions comprised 12 invasive ductal carcinoma and 13 DCIS. Three lesions in the failed retrieval group (one DCIS and two benign) were finally diagnosed as two DCIS and one benign after surgery. The accuracy of 14-G semi-automated CNB was 90.9% (30/33) because of two DCIS underestimates and one false-negative diagnosis. The discordance rate was significantly higher in the failed retrieval group than in the successful retrieval group (66.7% vs. 6.7%; p < 0.05). Punctate calcifications were significantly more common in the failed retrieval group than in the successful retrieval group (66.7% vs. 3.7%; p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: US-guided 14-G semi-automated CNB could be a useful procedure for suspicious microcalcifications in the breast those are apparent on sonography.

Long-Term Follow-Up Result of Benign Phyllodes Tumor of the Breast Diagnosed and Excised by Ultrasound-Guided Vacuum-Assisted Breast Biopsy / 한국유방암학회지

PURPOSE: Percutaneous removal of benign breast tumors using ultrasound-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB) has been recently regarded as a feasible and safe method without serious complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the VABB in the treatment of benign phyllodes tumors, and to identify whether or not surgical re-excision is necessary for benign phyllodes tumors diagnosed and excised by VABB. METHODS: From January 2003 to December 2011, a total of 6,923 VABB were performed in 5,434 patients. Out of 6,923 lesions, 53 were benign phyllodes tumors. Among these, 31 lesions, with a follow-up period of longer than 24 months, were enrolled in this study. Ultrasonography follow-up was performed at 3 to 6 month intervals in order to assess recurrence. The mean follow-up period was 75.9+/-13.5 months (range, 24-94 months). RESULTS: The mean patient age at presentation was 31.6+/-9.4 years. The mean size of the lesion was 1.60+/-0.88 cm. The majority of lesions, 74.2% (23 cases), were palpable, and 25.8% (8 cases) were non-palpable. Twenty-two lesions (71.0%) were classified as Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System category 3, and nine lesions (29.0%) were classified as category 4a, by ultrasonography. During the follow-up period, local recurrence developed in one lesion, making the local recurrence rate 3.2%. CONCLUSION: If a benign phyllodes tumor is diagnosed, and sufficiently excised by VABB, observing the clinical course may be considered as an alternative to performing immediate wide local excision; this is the case despite the fact that it would need to be observed for a prolonged period of time.

The Current Role of Vacuum Assisted Breast Biopsy System in Breast Disease / 한국유방암학회지

The gold standard for breast biopsy procedures is currently an open excision of the suspected lesion. However, an excisional biopsy inevitably makes a scar. The cost and morbidity associated with this procedure has prompted many physicians to evaluate less invasive, alternative procedures. More recently, image-guided percutaneous core-needle biopsy has become a frequently used method for diagnosing palpable and non-palpable breast lesions. Although sensitivity rates for core-needle biopsy are high, it has the disadvantage of histological underestimation, which renders the management of atypical ductal hyperplasia, papillary lesions, and fibroepithelial lesions somewhat difficult. Vacuum assisted breast biopsy (VABB) was developed to overcome some of these negative aspects of core-needle biopsy. VABB allows for a sufficient specimen to be obtained with a single insertion and can provide a more accurate diagnosis and completely remove the lesion under real-time ultrasonic guidance. The advantage of complete lesion removal with VABB is to reduce or eliminate sampling error, to decrease the likelihood of a histological underestimation, to decrease imaging-histological discordance, to decrease the re-biopsy rate, and to diminish the likelihood of subsequent growth on follow-up. In recent years, with the advancement of VABB instruments and techniques, many outcome studies have reported on the use of VABB for resecting benign breast lesions with a curative intent. VABB is highly accurate for diagnosing suspicious breast lesions and is highly successful at treating presumed benign breast lesions. Thus, in the near future, VABB will be routinely offered to all appropriately selected patients.

Lateral Decubitus Positioning Stereotactic Vacuum-Assisted Breast Biopsy with True Lateral Mammography / 한국유방암학회지

Stereotactic vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VAB) has been used to evaluate microcalcifications or non-palpable breast lesions on mammography. Although stereotactic VAB is usually performed in a prone or upright position, an expensive prone table is necessary and vasovagal reactions often occur during the procedure. For these reasons, the lateral decubitus position can be applied for stereotactic VAB, and true lateral mammography can be used to detect the lesion. We report on 15 cases of lateral decubitus positioning for stereotactic VAB with true lateral mammography for non-palpable breast lesions or microcalcifications. The mean procedure time was approximately 30.1 minutes, and no complications occurred during the procedures. Fourteen cases had benign breast lesions and one case had a ductal carcinoma in situ. The lateral decubitus stereotactic VAB with true lateral mammography can be applied for microcalcifications or non-palpable breast lesions and helps to minimize anxiety and vasovagal reactions in patients.

Underestimation of Ductal Carcinoma In situ on Sonographically Guided Core Needle Biopsy of the Breast

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the underestimation rate of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) on sonographically guided 14-gauge core needle biopsy of the breast and to investigate the factors associated with this underestimation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 2990 consecutive lesions that underwent sonographically guided 14-gauge core needle biopsy between January 2005 and December 2008. Among them, 61 lesions were pathologically proven to be DCIS (2.04%). A total of 50 DCIS lesions (mean patient age: 50.7 years old, age range: 36-79 years old) that underwent surgical resection were included in this study. After surgery, the lesion proven to be invasive was defined as being in the underestimated group and the lesion proven to DCIS was defined as being in the correctly diagnosed group. We determined the underestimation rate of DCIS and we retrospectively reviewed and compared the clinical, pathologic and radiologic features of the two groups. RESULTS: The underestimation rate of DCIS was found to be 28% (14 of 50 lesions). The underestimation of DCIS was significantly frequent for a clinically palpable lesion (78.6% (11/14) vs. 30.5% (11/36), respectively, p = 0.002). The sonographically maximal diameter of a lesion was significantly larger in the underestimated group than that in the accurately diagnosed group (28.4 +/- 14.0 mm vs. 17.6 +/- 10.3 mm, respectively, p = 0.017) and underestimation was significantly frequent when the sonographic lesion size was > 20 mm (p = 0.012). There was no significant difference in terms of age, the lesion type, the Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) category or the pathologic features between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The underestimation rate of DCIS was 28% for sonographically guided 14-gauge core needle biopsy of the breast. Clinical symptoms such as a palpable lesion and a sonographic lesion size > 20 mm were the factors related with the underestimation of DCIS.

Avaliação de um dispositivo portátil para biópsia vácuo-assistida de microcalcificações mamárias / Evaluation of a portable device for vacuum-assisted biopsy of breast microcalcifications

OBJETIVO: A biópsia vácuo-assistida é a forma percutânea de biópsia de microcalcificações que obtém a menor taxa de subestimação, porém, seu custo é alto, havendo interesse em se conseguir formas mais baratas de biópsia vácuo-assistida. O objetivo deste trabalho foi testar um dispositivo portátil de biópsia vácuo-assistida que apresenta custo menor. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foram biopsiadas 35 pacientes que apresentavam agrupamentos de microcalcificações BI-RADS® 4 ou 5. Foram testados a representatividade dos fragmentos colhidos, as dificuldades na reintrodução da cânula e o número de ciclos de colheita. RESULTADOS: Houve obtenção de calcificações representativas em todas as pacientes. Não houve discordância anatomorradiológica, dificuldade na reintrodução da cânula ou complicações graves. CONCLUSÃO: Os dados permitem concluir que o sistema apresenta boa eficácia na obtenção das amostras e com relação de custo-benefício favorável em relação a outros sistemas para a biópsia de microcalcificações, achados em concordância com outras publicações da literatura.

OBJECTIVE: Vacuum-assisted biopsy is the percutaneous technique of breast biopsy with the lowest underestimation rate. However, the cost of such procedure is high and currently there is a considerable interest in developing less expensive techniques. The present study was aimed at testing a less expensive device for vacuum-assisted biopsy of breast microcalcifications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-five patients with clustered microcalcifications classified as BI-RADS® 4 or 5 were submitted to biopsy. Collected specimen appropriateness, difficulties in the reinsertion of the cannula and number of biopsy passes were evaluated. RESULTS: Successful specimens collection was achieved in all of the patients. Histo-radiological disagreement, difficulties in the cannula reinsertion or severe complications were not observed. CONCLUSION: The authors conclude that the method is effective in terms of specimens appropriateness and cost-benefit ratio as compared with of biopsy techniques for breast microcalcifications. Such findings are compatible with data reported in the literature.

Stereotactic vacuum assisted core needle breast biopsy: An initial experience at The Medical City

Stereotactic vacuum assisted breast biopsy has been developed as a minimally invasive alternative procedure to mammogram-guided wire localization then excision breast biopsy for non-palpable breast abnormalities.OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study was to describe the Medical City experience on stereotactic vacuum assisted breast biopsy from September 2007 to December 2009.METHODS: Review of patients' records, mammogram results and histopathology reports of all patients who had stereotactic breast biopsy done at the Medical City from September 2007 up to December 2009. Percentages of patients with BI-RADS category 4 on mammogram and of patients with positive histopathology results were calculated. Conclusions were obtained from the tally and the percentage computations. Present rates of stereotactic complications were noted as well.RESULTS: There were 25 patients who had stereotactic vacuum assisted breast biopsy from September 2007 to December 2009. Of the 25 patients, 15 (60%) had mammogram results with BIRADS category 4. Of the 15 patients with BI-RADS category 4, 5(33.33%) had a histopathology diagnosis positive for malignancy.CONCLUSION: Stereotactic vacuum assisted breast biopsy is more cost-effective as against mammogram-guided wire localization then excision breast biopsy with the present rates at our institution. Post stereotactic complications experiences by a few patients were very minor.

Is Further Diagnostic Surgery Necessary for the Benign Papillary Lesions that Are Diagnosed by Large Volume Vacuum Assisted Breast Biopsy? / 한국유방암학회지

PURPOSE: There is ongoing controversy regarding the management of papillary lesions that are diagnosed by core needle biopsy (CNB). The development of vacuum assisted biopsy now permits non-operative removal of papillary breast lesions. Our aim was to evaluate whether the papillary lesions diagnosed by vacuum assisted breast biopsy (VABB) can be followed up without further diagnostic excision. METHODS: From January 2003 to July 2009, a total of 4,655 US-guided mammotome excision were performed in 3,714 patients at Kangnam CHA Hospital. Out of 4,655 lesions, 156 lesions were proved to be papillary lesions. Among these, 82 lesions that had histologic findings that were consistent with benign papillary lesions and that were followed up for more than 2 years without further diagnostic surgical excision were collected and retrospectively analyzed. Ultrasonographic follow-up was done at 3-6 month intervals to assess for recurrence. The mean follow up period was 49.6 months. RESULTS: The pathologic diagnoses for the 82 lesions obtained via VABB were benign intraductal papilloma and papillomatosis. Half of the lesions were palpable and 50.0% (41 cases) were nonpalpable. Twenty eight lesions (34.1%) were classified as BIRADS category 3, 50 lesions (61.0%) were category 4A, 3 lesions (3.7%) were category 4B and only 1 lesion (1.2%) was category 5 according to the ultrasound exams. No local recurrence developed during the follow up period that needed surgical re-excision or rebiopsy. None of those diagnosed as benign lesions at VABB were upgraded to a more advanced lesions. CONCLUSION: The benign papillary lesions that are diagnosed and excised by mammotome may not need further diagnostic surgical re-excision if surgeons are sure that the targeted lesions were excised completely.

Usefulness and Complications of Ultrasonography-Guided Vacuum Assisted Biopsy for the Removal of Benign Breast Lesions

PURPOSE: To evaluate the usefulness and complications of ultrasonography (US)-guided vacuum assisted biopsy (VAB) for the removal of benign breast lesions, and the short- and long-term changes after VAB as shown on follow-up US. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 2007 to May 2008, 110 sonographically benign lesions in 62 patients were sampled via US-guided VAB. We prospectively evaluated the sonographic findings 1 week and 6 months after VAB in all patients to determine the presence of residual tumors, hematomas and scarring. We evaluated the prevalence of hematoma, pain, skin dimpling, fibrotic scarring and residual tumors after US-guided VAB, and determined if correlation existed between complications, size of the lesions and lesion pathology. RESULTS: The age of the patients was 15-65 years, with a mean age of 36.5 years. The pathologic diagnoses were fibroadenomas (41.8%, n = 46), fibrocystic changes (30.9%, n = 34), fibroadenomatoid hyperplasias (13.6%, n = 15), fibroadenomatoid mastopathies (6.3%, n = 7), adenoses (3.6%, n = 4), hamartomas (1.8%, n = 2) and phyllodes tumors (1.8%, n = 2). Complications 1 week after the US-guided VAB included hematomas (n = 39, 35.4%), pain (n = 23, 20.9%), fibrotic scars (n = 26, 23.68%), residual tumors (n = 4, 3.6%) and skin dimplings (n = 4, 3.6%). Complications 6 months after the US-guided VAB included hematomas (n = 12, 10.9%), pain (n = 3 2.7%), fibrotic scars (n = 14, 12.7%), and residual tumors (n = 17, 15.4%). Residual tumor after US-guided VAB existed in association with 15.2% of fibroadenomas (7/46), 14.7% of fibrocystic changes (5/34), 13.3% of fibroadenomatoid hyperplasias (2/15), 25% of adenoses (1/4), and 100% of phyllodes tumors (2/2). CONCLUSION: US-guided VAB is an effective procedure for removal of benign breast lesion. Periodic follow up studies at 1week and 6months after the VAB are useful to assess Post-VAB complications.

Ultrasound-guided mammotome excision biopsy for benign breast lesions

OBJECTIVE: A 15-month review of all mammotome excision breast biopsies in the Medical City to evaluate our experience in excising benign breast lesions using this technique by taking into consideration the complications encountered and patient satisfaction regarding the procedure and the postoperative result.METHODS: The study included all patients seen by two breast surgeons of the Medical City Breast Clinic from May 2007 to July 2008 with both palpable breast masses visible on ultrasound with a Breast Imaging Reporting a Data System (BIRADS) classification of 2-4. Women with lesions at high risk for malignancy were excluded from the study. Patient demographics were noted, lesions were classified according to BIRADS classification and data regarding the procedure, compilations incurred and patient satisfaction ratings were obtained.RESULTS: One hundred nineteen patients with ages ranging from 17 to 72 years old underwent ultrasound guided mammotome excision at the TMC-Breast Clinic removing a total of 167 lesions. Majority (82%) of patients were premenopausal whereas 22 (18%) were postmenopausal. Ecchymosis (73%) was the most frequent complication during the procedure due to hematoma formation, pain and a skin nick that require suturing. Of the 25 patients who had a previous open biopsy, 23 (92%) preferred mammotome excision over open breast biopsy.CONCLUSION: Ultrasound-guided mammotome excision is a safe and well-tolerated alternative to open excision biopsy for benign lesions of the breast.

US-Guided Vacuum-Assisted Biopsy of Microcalcifications in Breast Lesions and Long-Term Follow-Up Results

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the use of an ultrasonography (US)-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy for microcalcifications of breast lesions and to evaluate the efficacy of the use of US-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy with long-term follow-up results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: US-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy cases of breast lesions that were performed between 2002 and 2006 for microcalcifications were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 62 breast lesions were identified where further pathological confirmation was obtained or where at least two years of mammography follow-up was obtained. These lesions were divided into the benign and malignant lesions (benign and malignant group) and were divided into underestimated group and not-underestimated lesions (underestimated and not-underestimated group) according to the diagnosis after a vacuum-assisted biopsy. The total number of specimens that contained microcalcifications was analyzed and the total number of microcalcification flecks as depicted on specimen mammography was analyzed to determine if there was any statistical difference between the groups. RESULTS: There were no false negative cases after more than two years of follow-up. Twenty-nine lesions were diagnosed as malignant (two invasive carcinomas and 27 carcinoma in situ lesions). Two of the 27 carcinoma in situ lesions were upgraded to invasive cancers after surgery. Among three patients diagnosed with atypical ductal hyperplasia, the diagnosis was upgraded to a ductal carcinoma in situ after surgery in one patient. There was no statistically significant difference in the number of specimens with microcalcifications and the total number of microcalcification flecks between the benign group and malignant group of patients and between the underestimated group and not-underestimated group of patients. CONCLUSION: US-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy can be an effective alternative to stereotactic-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy in cases where microcalcifications are visible with the use of high-resolution US.

The Safety and Efficiency of the Ultrasound-guided Large Needle Core Biopsy of Axilla Lymph Nodes

PURPOSE: To evaluate the safety and efficiency of the Ultrasound (US)-guided large needle core biopsy of axilla lymph nodes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From March 2004 to September 2005, 31 patients underwent the US-guided core biopsy for axilla lymph nodes. Twenty five lesions out of 31 were detected during breast US, and 6 of 31 cases were palpable. Lymph nodes were classified based on their shape and cortical morphology. The core biopsy of axilla lymph nodes was performed on suspicious lymph nodes found during breast ultrasonography to find out whether the patients had a history of breast cancer or not. Among the 31 patients, 16 patients were associated with breast cancer. The lesion sizes varied from 0.6cm to 3.3cm (mean = 1.59 +/- 0.76cm). US-guided core biopsies were performed with 14G needles with an automated biopsy gun. Total 3 or 5 specimens were obtained. RESULTS: Among the 31 cases of axilla lymph nodes core biopsies, 11 cases showed malignant pathology. Seven out of 11 cases were metastatic lymph nodes from breast cancer; 2 cases were from primary unknown and 2 cases from lymphomas. On the other hand, 20 histopathologic results of axilla lesions were benign: subacute necrotizing lymphadenitis (n=2), dermatopathic lymphadenitis (n=1), reactive hyperplasia (n=10) and free of carcinoma (n=7). CONCLUSION: The US-guided large needle core biopsy of axilla lesions is safe and effective for the pathological evaluation. The core biopsy is believed to be easy to perform if suspicious lymph nodes or mass lesions are found in the axilla.

Pure and Mixed Tubular Carcinoma of the Breast: Mammographic and Sonographic Differential Features

OBJECTIVE: We wanted to evaluate the mammographic and sonographic differential features between pure (PT) and mixed tubular carcinoma (MT) of the breast. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 1998 and May 2004, 17 PTs and 14 MTs were pathologically confirmed at our institution. The preoperative mammography (n = 26) and sonography (n = 28) were analyzed by three radiologists according to BI-RADS. RESULTS: On mammography, a mass was not detected in eight patients with PT and in one patient with MT (57% vs. 8%, respectively, p = 0.021), which was statistically different. The other findings on mammography and sonography showed no statistical differences between the PT and MT, although the numerical values were different. When the lesions were detected mammographically, an irregularly shaped mass with a spiculated margin was more frequently found in the MT than in the PT (100% vs. 83%, respectively, p = 0.353). On sonography, all 28 patients presented with a mass and most lesions showed as not being circumscribed, hypoechoic masses with an echogenic halo. Surrounding tissue changes and posterior shadowing were more frequently found in the MT than in the PT (75% vs. 50%, respectively, p = 0.253, 58% vs. 19%, respectively, p = 1.000). An oval shaped mass was more frequently found in the PT than in the MT (44% vs. 25%, respectively; p = 0.434). CONCLUSION: PT and MT cannot be precisely differentiated on mammography and sonography. However, the absence of a mass on mammography or the presence of an oval shaped mass would favor the diagnosis of PT. An irregularly shaped mass with surrounding tissue change and posterior shadowing on sonography would favor the diagnosis of MT and also a less favorable prognosis.

Imaging and the Clinical-Pathologic Features of Invasive Micropapillary Carcinoma of the Breast

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to describe the mammographic and sonographic appearances and the clinical-pathologic features of invasive micropapillary carcinoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between December 1999 and March 2005, among the 3,109 patients who underwent operation for breast cancer, 25 patients proved to have invasive micropaillary carcinoma. Among the 25 patients, we included 22 patients (mean age: 48, range: 26-77 years) who had undergone preoperative mammography and ultrasound. The mammographic and sonographic findings of the lesions were analyzed retrospectively. The pathologic findings were analyzed via the clinical records and pathology reports. RESULTS: Patients manifested with a palpable mass (77%, 17/22), bloody nipple discharge (14%, 3/22) or incidental lesion on the screening mammography (9%, 2/22). On mammography, a mass with an irregular (86%, 12/14) shape and an indistinct (43%, 6/14) or spiculated (43%, 6/14) margin was the most common findings on mammography. On sonography, a hypoechoic (91%, 20/22) mass with irregular shape (73%, 16/22) and an indistinct (32%, 7/22) or microlobulated (32%, 7/22) margin was the most common finding. Pathologically, axillary lymph node metastasis was present in 73% (16/22) of the patients. CONCLUSION: Invasive micropapillary carcinoma appeared an irregular shaped mass with an indistinct margin mass or microcalcifications on mammography and/or sonography. The tumors were frequently associated with axillary lymph node metastasis.