First 3D-Guided Breast Biopsy Performed in the United States

Three-dimensional (3D)-guided biopsies allow the localization and accurate targeting of regions of interest (ROI) using 3D mammography, which creates a comprehensive reconstruction of the breast, giving radiologists the ability to identify specific abnormalities that can be difficult to detect with conventional screening techniques.

Radiologists from Magee-Womens Hospital of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC; Pittsburgh, PA, USA) in June 2013 performed the United States’ first 3D-guided breast biopsy, making it the first center in the country to offer this sophisticated biopsy technique for the benefit of its patients. The new system complements the 3D breast cancer screening equipment known as breast tomosynthesis that Magee radiologists helped develop.

3D-guided biopsies allow the localization and accurate targeting of regions of interest using 3D mammography, which creates a complete reconstruction of the breast, giving radiologists the ability to identify certain abnormalities that can be difficult to detect with traditional screening techniques. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared biopsy system by Hologic, Inc. (Bedford, MA, USA) has many advantages over traditional stereotactic biopsy procedures, including faster lesion targeting, reduced patient procedure time, and reduced radiation exposure.

“This biopsy option is especially valuable for women with breast lesions that are hard to reach with standard biopsy procedures, as well as for women with arthritis or other physical issues that make traditional biopsy difficult,” said Jules Sumkin, DO, chief of radiology at Magee.

Much of the initial 3D research was conducted at Magee, whose researchers remain the most widely published group in the United States on the technology. “The ability for us to provide 3D-guided biopsy to our patients represents an exciting new example of our leadership in this area,” said Dr. Sumkin. “Magee radiologists continue to play a pivotal role in the development and advancement of this technology.”

By providing women with the latest technology in mammography and breast biopsy, Dr. Magee expects to see more women regularly screened for breast cancer. Breast cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death among women, exceeded only by lung cancer. Statistics indicate that one in eight women will develop the disease in her lifetime.

The stage at which breast cancer is detected influences a woman’s chance of survival. If detected early, the five-year survival rate is 98%.

Related Links:
Magee-Womens Hospital of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
Hologic