CRL Imaging
Comfort. Consultation. Care.
CRL Imaging delivers quality outpatient radiology services in three
convenient locations. We collaborate with referring physicians to
provide timely patient diagnoses, appropriate interventions and innovative
treatments. The CRL Imaging centers in Edina, Plymouth,
and Southdale offer
an array of imaging services such as MRI,
CT
scans, mammography, general
x-ray, ultrasound, bone
density scans, fluoroscopy, nuclear
medicine, and
pain
management injections.
CRL Imaging offers same-day appointments, a comfortable environment and quality staff that will take care of your needs. Contact us to find out more about your appointment.
Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy / Cyst Aspiration
Ultrasound is frequently used to evaluate breast abnormalities detected by mammography, the patient or her doctor. Ultrasound is not a screening procedure. Ultrasound allows for obtaining images of the breast from almost any orientation, but in some cases it is not possible to tell from the imaging studies alone whether a growth is benign or cancerous.
Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is a highly accurate way to evaluate those suspicious masses and it can help determine if an area in question is in fact a cyst (always non-cancerous) or an increased density of solid tissue (dense mass). This biopsy procedure prevents the need to remove normal tissue surgically and also eliminates the radiation exposure that comes from using x-rays to locate a lesion or mass.
It is important to know that most abnormal findings detected during a mammogram are not cancer. Biopsies are the only way to find out if cells are cancer.
Ultrasound-Guided Core Needle Biopsies
About the Procedure
Core needle biopsies are the most common type of breast biopsy for a number of reasons including that they are easy to perform and are highly accurate.
Preparation
Ultrasound-guided breast biopsies are minimally invasive, but a slight risk of bleeding exists whenever the skin is penetrated. You may be advised to discontinue taking aspirin or blood thinners 7-10 days prior to your procedure. Please consult with your primary physician regarding any prescribed medications.
It is recommended that you wear a two-piece outfit and bra.
During the Procedure
You will lie on your back or be turned slightly to the side on a padded table. The radiologist will use an ultrasound probe to locate the lesion or mass. Local anesthesia is injected to ensure that no discomfort is felt during the procedure. A very small nick is made in the skin at the site where the biopsy needle is to be inserted. Using the ultrasound as a guide, the radiologist inserts a hollow-core biopsy needle directly into the mass or lesion. Approximately five tissue samples will be taken. A clip maybe placed where the lesion was so the exact location can easily be found in the future if surgery becomes necessary.
A small compression dressing is placed over the tiny skin incisions upon completion of the biopsy procedure. The biopsy procedure can take up to 1 hour to complete.
Ultrasound-Guided Cyst Aspirations
About the Procedure
An ultrasound-guided cyst aspiration is a procedure by which a radiologist removes fluid from inside a breast lump. Ultrasound imaging is used to determine the exact location of a cyst within the breast tissue. The images assist the radiologist in precisely positioning the needle within your breast in order to drain fluid-filled cysts.
Preparation
There are no diet restrictions prior to the procedure, but you may prefer a light meal so that you will be more comfortable. A two-piece outfit and bra should be worn.
During the Procedure
A technologist and radiologist will be working together during your procedure. You will lie on your back or be turned slightly to the side on a padded table. Warm gel will be placed on your breast and ultrasound will be used to identify the location of the cyst(s). The Radiologist will insert a thin needle into your breast to drain the cyst(s). You may feel a pinch and slight pressure at this time. The fluid from the cyst will drain into a syringe and the cyst will collapse. Depending on the appearance of the fluid, it may be discarded, or sent to the laboratory for analysis. A bandage is applied over the puncture site. You may experience slight bruising or swelling. The cyst aspiration procedure will take between 15-30 minutes to complete.
After the Procedures
You may drive home after either procedure and resume normal activities.
Follow-up
If fluid or tissue samples are sent to the laboratory for analysis, the results will be available in 24 hours. You will receive the results from either CRL or your referring physician.
Anything needing immediate attention will be called to the referring physician the day of the exam.
