The Mammotome is an instrument for taking tissue samples (biopsies) from the breast using a technique known as vacuum–assisted biopsy.

This involves numbing the skin over the breast with an injection of local anaesthetic, then making a small cut in the skin. A small probe is placed through the cut into the breast tissue and guided to the correct area with the help of ultrasound or x-ray imaging. When the probe is in position, a vacuum gently draws, cuts and collects some breast tissue into a small collecting chamber. Several biopsies may be taken in this way without the need to remove and reinsert the probe.

Afterwards, the probe is taken out and the cut is covered with a small dressing, with no need for any stitches. The whole procedure takes about an hour. Usually, women are able to go home immediately afterwards. Side effects after a Mammotome biopsy are generally mild and may include discomfort for a few days afterwards and temporary bruising for 5 to 7 days.

A Mammotome biopsy takes more tissue than a standard needle biopsy. This makes it particularly helpful for diagnosing abnormal areas in the breast where no lump can be felt (often detected by mammogram screening) or where a previous needle biopsy has not given a clear result.

Mammotome can also be used to remove small benign (non-cancerous) breast lumps.

In the UK most women who have a breast biopsy will have a needle biopsy, but a Mammotome may be used when a needle biopsy might not give all the information needed to make a diagnosis.

References

• Guidance on screening and symptomatic breast imaging (2nd edition).  Royal College of Radiologists, 2003
• Fine RE et al. Low-risk palpable breast masses removed using a vacuum-assisted hand-held device. American Journal of Surgery, 203; 186: 362-367.