Surgery choices for Intraductal Papilloma?

Question

I know what it is. My mamogram was 'good' today. My surgeon appt is next week. If the mamo was 'good' then I take that as they can't see the problem. If they can't see the problem does that mean a needle biopsy is out of the question? I am trying to read up on this as much as possible as far a percentages, frequencies, etc. Also I was checking the stereotactic biopsy info online and it refers to a interventional radiologist playing a role. Do these professionals work with a surgical group?

Answer 1

A needle biopsy is done either on an area you can feel (a lump) or an abnormal area seen on an ultrasound or mammogram.  Are you in this situation?  I am assuming you have bloody nipple discharge, if you are concerned about an intraductal papilloma.

A stereotactic breast biopsy is a needle core biopsy which uses x-ray guidance and is done by a radiologist, either in a free-standing imaging center or a hospital's radiology department.  A stereo is done on an abnormal area SEEN on a mammogram.  A needle core biopsy can be done, using ultrasound guidance, on an abnormal area SEEN on an ultrasound.  These biopsies are done on specialized machines that most general surgeons do not have access to or training on.  The tissue we get during this procedure is evaluated by a pathologist.

Also a ductogram is done using the mammography machine and performed by the radiologist.  A ductogram is helpful if a intraductal papilloma is suspected.  

Answer 2

Intraductal papillomas cannot always been seen on a mammograms. This would not preclude a biopsy and biopsies are usually done before surgery. The biopsy would be done with ultrasound guidance by a radiologist. Radiologists primarily work out of hospitals and work with all the doctors regardless of specialty on staff.

Answer 3

A Radiologist is someone who takes your x-ray if that's what you meant. But I think it's safer to ask your surgeon if he thinks it's best you go through with the needle biopsy because he will know what's best for you, if he says something that means it's up to you or whatever, then do it. It's better to be in the hands of someone who's medically trained who knows how to make you better rather than being away from one where you have no idea what's about to happen next.

Hope this helped.