Comparison of automated versus vacuum-assisted biopsy methods for sonographically guided core biopsy of the breast

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcome of sonographically guided core biopsies performed with the 14-gauge automated gun with the outcome of those performed with the 11-gauge vacuum-assisted device. Outcome was defined in terms of missed tumors, the need (both immediate and delayed) for a second biopsy, histologic underestimation, and complication rates. MATERIALS AND METHODS. We retrospectively reviewed all sonographically guided core biopsies performed between January 1997 and August 2001. Before February 2000, biopsies were performed using the 14-gauge automated gun and after that time, with either the 14-gauge automated gun or the 11-gauge vacuum-assisted device. During the study period, 181 biopsies were performed with the 14-gauge automated gun and 100 with the 11-gauge vacuum-assisted device. RESULTS. The histologic results of the core biopsies were similar for the group who underwent biopsy with the 14-gauge automated gun and the group who underwent biopsy with the 11-gauge vacuum-assisted device: malignant, 19% versus 19%; benign, 78% versus 79%; and high-risk lesion or other, 3% versus 2%, respectively (p> 0.7). Complications were rare and similar for both methods: 2% for the 14-gauge automated gun and 3% for the 11-gauge vacuum-assisted device (p = 0.46). A second biopsy was recommended immediately after the first in 14% of the patients who underwent biopsy with the 14-gauge automated gun versus 17% of those who underwent biopsy with the 11-gauge vacuum-assisted device (p = 0.47). Recommendation for delayed rebiopsy due to interval change occurred in 2.5% of the patients who underwent biopsy with the 14-gauge automated gun method and 3% of those who underwent biopsy with the 11-gauge vacuum-assisted device (p = 0.94). CONCLUSION. No significant differences were found in the outcomes of sonographically guided core biopsies performed with the automated gun compared with those performed with the vacuum-assisted device in terms of missed cancers, underestimation, complications, or the need (immediate or delayed) for a second biopsy.