Vacuum-assisted breast biopsy: A comparison of 11-gauge and 8-gauge needles in benign breast disease

Abstract

Background: Minimal invasive breast biopsy is standard care for the diagnosis of suspicious breast lesions. There are different vacuum biopsy (VB) systems in use. The aim of the study was to determine the differences between the 8-gauge and the 11-gauge needle with respect to a) diagnostic reliability, b) complication rate and c) subjective perception of pain when used for vacuum-assisted breast biopsy.

Mammotome® biopsy system for the resection of breast lesions: Clinical experience in two high-volume teaching hospitals

“…As a result of the potential for complete excision, biopsy and a treatment for benign breast lesions were facilitated. The clinical experience gained in the present study indicated that the 8-gauge probe was suitable for the firm breast tissue due to its sharp scalpel point, and that it was appropriate for the complete removal of benign lesions under ultrasound guidance (31). Taking into consideration the capacity of the probe to obtain the samples and to lead to successful therapeutic outcomes, the use of the 8-gauge probe was maintained throughout the study.…”

“…Increasing numbers of surgeons have attempted similar therapeutic procedures (21,27,28,30–32). The application of an 8-gauge probe led to the possibility of larger-volume sampling and excision (31). As a result of the potential for complete excision, biopsy and a treatment for benign breast lesions were facilitated.…”

“…Therefore, the outcome of the study has emphasized the therapeutic value of the 8-gauge probe in breast benign lesions. Notably, the advantages in the use of the larger 8-gauge probe in breast biopsy, compared with the 11-gauge probe, were disaffirmed (31). However, the 8-gauge probe was indicated to demonstrate greater potential in lesion eradication, rather than mere biopsy.…”

Sonographically Guided Vacuum-Assisted Breast Biopsy for Complete Excision of Presumed Benign Breast Lesions

“…We consider the Mammotome to be superior in terms of its accuracy in obtaining samples for the diagnosis of impalpable breast lesions. The smaller the tumor, the more easily it is removed 32 . Furthermore, It should be considered as a viable alternative to much more radical open surgical approaches when faced with the daunting task of removing multiple bilateral presumed benign lesions such as multiple fibroadenomas.…”

Minimally Invasive Biopsy Methods – Diagnostics or Therapy? Personal Opinion and Review of the Literature

“…Since VAB gives the opportunity to remove relatively large tissue amounts, it can be used to excise small lesions as an alternative to open surgery for women with a known benign mass, who desire excision but prefer to avoid surgery or who are not suitable for surgery. VAB is well tolerated [32]. Thurley et al [33] performed ultrasound-guided VAB in 134 patients with benign lesions.…”