The role of this procedure is to help the surgeon pinpoint the correct area in your breast for biopsy.

A nurse will call you 24 hours prior to your procedure with specific pre-operative instructions. General instructions are available on this web site in the About Your Surgery and Procedure section.

A marker will be placed on your breast at the site of the suspicious area that was identified on your mammogram and/or ultrasound. Two mammogram pictures will be taken to confirm the location of the suspected abnormality. In most cases, a local anesthetic will be injected using a very tiny needle. You may feel a slight sting in your breast at the injection site.

The radiologist will insert a needle at the marked site. Repeat view mammograms will be done to check position of the needle tip. If the needle is not at the lesion, it will be repositioned and the imaging process repeated. When the tip is in the correct position, a small amount of blue dye will be injected through it. The needle will be removed or replaced with a wire. You will be taken to surgery for your biopsy.

This portion of your treatment will take approximately 60 minutes.

Your surgeon will give you home care instructions prior to sending you home.

We want to make your waiting time as pleasant as possible. Although we do not anticipate a delay in your scheduled appointment, consider bringing your favorite magazine, book or Walkmanż to help you pass the time should an unanticipated delay occur.

For your safety, please leave your jewelry and valuables at home. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please call (310) 423-9331, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.