Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
|---|---|---|---|
![]() |
Breast Biopsy Questions about the definition, risks and results of breast biopsy. |
2,995 | ![]() |
| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 9/7/2008 | I had a needle biopsy, because of 1 tiny spot of calcification seen on the mamogram. results were clear. Doctor wants to do a hook-wire op and place a tissue marker because of family history of breast cancer, mum and sister. Is this the correct procedure to follow. Do I have to have the op. She says if family history was not strong it would not be necessary. | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 9/10/2008 | If the needle biopsy showed calcifications related to atypical cells, next step is to do a wire localization and open excisional biopsy to remove additional tissue. The wire guides the surgeon as it localizes the area of concern. The marker is very small and detected only on mammogram. It helps with reading of mammograms in the future. The biopsy removes tissue to rule out early stage breast cancer. ds | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.

