Breast biopsy and Marker Clip

Tissue samples from an image-guided procedure, leaving a tiny clip at the site

What is it?

A breast biopsy removes small tissue cores from an area seen on a mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI. A pathologist looks at the tissue under a microscope. After the samples are taken, a tiny metal marker clip is placed through the same needle so the spot can be found later, even if the finding is no longer visible.

Imaging guides the needle. Ultrasound, stereotactic mammography, or MRI may be used. It is not open surgery. The clip is about the size of a sesame seed. It is safe to leave in place, and it does not set off airport security.

Why do I need it?

Imaging can find an area that needs tissue to tell benign from something that needs treatment. A biopsy may be done for:

• A mass, distortion, or group of calcifications on a mammogram
• A finding on ultrasound or an area that enhances on breast MRI
• A change that does not look clearly benign
• The clip marks the site for follow-up imaging, or so it can be located if surgery is needed

How do I prepare?

• Medicines: Tell the team about blood thinners, aspirin, and all other medicines. Do not stop them unless you are told to.
• Allergies: Report allergies to numbing medicine, latex, adhesives, or skin cleanser. Tell the team if you are pregnant.
• The breast: Do not use deodorant, powder, or lotion on the breast or underarm the day of the biopsy. Wear a two-piece top and a supportive bra.
• Eating: You can usually eat normally. Local numbing medicine is used. Sedation is uncommon.
• Support: Tell the team about breast implants. A ride is not always required. Arrange one if you were told you will receive sedation.

How is it placed?

• You lie on your back for ultrasound, or face down on a special table for a stereotactic or MRI biopsy. The breast may be gently compressed.
• The skin is cleaned and numbed. You will feel pressure, but report any sharp pain so the doctor can give more numbing medicine.
• Imaging guides the needle to the area of interest. Several small cores are taken. You may hear a click with each sample.
• The marker clip is placed through the needle. The needle is removed. You hold pressure, and we apply a bandage.
• A mammogram is often done afterward to confirm the clip position. The visit often takes 30 to 60 minutes.

Care instructions

• Wear a supportive bra for 24 hours, including overnight. Use an ice pack, wrapped in a cloth, for 10 to 20 minutes at a time the day of the biopsy.
• Keep the bandage on for 24 hours. You may usually shower after that and pat the site dry. Do not soak in a bath or pool for a few days.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous arm use on that side for 24 to 48 hours. Bruising and a small firm lump are common and fade over days to weeks.
• The clip stays in the breast unless it is removed at later surgery. Most clips are MRI-conditional. Bring the clip card to future imaging.
• Results usually take several business days. Keep the follow-up visit even if you feel well.

What to watch out for

Call your care team promptly if you notice:

• Bleeding that soaks the bandage, or a lump that is growing
• Redness, warmth, drainage, or fever
• Pain that is not eased by ice and the medicine you were told you may take
• A new rash, hives, or swelling at the site
• Trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting — seek emergency care