What is a "stereotactic biopsy"?

What is a "stereotactic biopsy"?

Richard E. Gould (Hematologist/Oncologist, Cedars-Sinai Outpatient Cancer Center) gives expert video advice on: How often should I have a mammogram?; Is a mammogram painful?; Is the radiation exposure from getting a mammogram harmful? and more...

A stereotactic biopsy is done when there is a concerning area on mammogram, but it's not palpable on exam. In a stereotactic biopsy a radiologist uses a wire to localize exactly where the abnormality is, so they are able to biopsy that specific area of concern to determine whether there is cancer there or not.