Breast Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNA)

FNA - Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) may be performed for selected BI-RADS 3 breast lesions or to investigate suspected metastatic involvement of lymph nodes or soft tissues. FNA may also be used in the assessment of suspicious soft tissue lesions. At our Medical Centre, fine-needle aspiration biopsies are performed under ultrasound guidance. Cells are collected from the breast lump, tumour or other lesion and examined under a microscope. This is a cytological examination and the result is reported as cytology.

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy has certain diagnostic limitations and false-negative results may occur. For this reason, the choice between FNA, core needle biopsy and other biopsy techniques depends on the imaging findings, clinical situation and the nature of the breast lesion. In the case of large breast cysts, FNA may also be performed to drain the cyst when it causes breast pain or discomfort.

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy may be one of the stages of diagnostic assessment performed at our Breast Clinic in Gdańsk, depending on the nature of the breast lesion and the results of imaging examinations.

How to Prepare for a Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy?

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy does not require any special preparation. A breast ultrasound examination is usually recommended before the biopsy. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is performed using a fine needle and syringe similar to those used for an injection. Local anaesthesia is generally not required.

At our Medical Centre, ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsies are performed by surgical oncologists and by radiologist Dr Jakub Morawiec.

Pathological Examination of Breast Tumours - Cytological and Histopathological Assessment

Whether a breast tumour or other breast lesion is malignant or benign can be assessed by cytological examination, which evaluates individual cells obtained during fine-needle aspiration biopsy, or by histopathological examination of tissue obtained through core needle biopsy, vacuum-assisted breast biopsy, tissue sampling or surgical excision of the lesion. Histopathological assessment generally provides more detailed information about the nature of a breast tumour and is essential in establishing a definitive diagnosis in suspected breast cancer.

For this reason, core needle biopsy is frequently recommended for the assessment of suspicious breast lesions. Biopsy specimens, tissue samples and surgically removed lesions obtained at our Medical Centre are submitted for appropriate pathological examination. Cytological and histopathological specimens are assessed by a specialist pathologist.

Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre – Comprehensive Breast Tumour and Breast Lump Diagnostics

Do you have a concerning breast lump or lesion that you would like to have investigated as quickly as possible?

Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre provides comprehensive diagnostics of breast tumours, breast lumps and other breast lesions.

Our Medical Centre provides a patient-friendly environment equipped with high-quality diagnostic equipment and staffed by experienced physicians specialising in breast imaging, breast biopsy and the diagnosis of breast disease. In many cases, a breast biopsy can be performed with minimal waiting time. Breast biopsies are performed by surgical oncologists Dr Natalia Spychalska and Dr Kamil Drucis, as well as radiologist Dr Jakub Morawiec. Cytological and histopathological specimens are assessed by specialist pathologist Dr Artur Antolak.

Not sure which type of breast biopsy is appropriate in your case – fine-needle aspiration biopsy, core needle biopsy or vacuum-assisted breast biopsy?

• If a breast lump or tumour has already been identified, the doctor will assess the lesion and determine the most appropriate type of biopsy during the consultation. You may select an available appointment and biopsy service with one of our doctors through the ZnanyLekarz portal. During the visit, the doctor will select the procedure best suited to your imaging findings and individual clinical situation.

• The collected material is submitted for cytological examination in the case of fine-needle aspiration biopsy or histopathological examination in the case of core needle biopsy and is assessed by a specialist pathologist. If a breast tumour, including breast cancer, has been diagnosed and you require consultation regarding possible treatment options and further oncological management, this consultation is also available at our Medical Centre with clinical oncologist and radiation oncologist Dr Magdalena Korożan. Book an appointment through our website (by e-mail or telephone) or via ZnanyLekarz: Dr Magdalena Korożan.

• Ultrasound-guided breast biopsies and standard breast ultrasound examinations are performed using a new-generation high-end ultrasound system – the GE LOGIQ E10.

We invite you to book an appointment with Dr Natalia Spychalska, Dr Jakub Morawiec, Dr Kamil Drucis or Dr Artur Antolak through our website (by e-mail or telephone) or via ZnanyLekarz: Dr Natalia Spychalska,  Dr Jakub Morawiec,  Dr Kamil Drucis,  Dr Artur Antolak.

Please note that the waiting time for a histopathology report is approximately 30 days.