How Mammotome® Works Here's what you or someone you care about can expect when undergoing a breast biopsy using the Mammotome® system: Preoperative 1. Patient positioning depends on the imaging method that is used. If the procedure uses ultrasound imaging, a doctor will obtain images of the breast tissue while the patient lies on her back. In stereotactic procedures, patients lie face down on a special table. The woman's breast protrudes through a hole in the table's surface, where it is lightly compressed and immobilized while a computer produces detailed images of the abnormality. 2. The patient is given a local anesthetic (injection) to minimize any discomfort. The Mammotome® Biopsy Procedure 3. Once the area to be biopsied has been located and mapped, the Mammotome® probe is inserted through a small ¼-inch incision in the breast. 4. When the probe is positioned at the area of concern, it gently vacuums, cuts and removes tissue samples for examination. The samples are passed through the hollow chamber of the probe into a collection chamber. Because the Mammotome® probe is directional, multiple specimens can be collected without having to remove and reinsert the device. Postoperative 5. To continue to monitor your breast health following a breast biopsy using the Mammotome® system, the doctor may place a small stainless steel clip to identify the biopsy site. While this tiny marker is undetectable to the patient, it enables a physician to keep track of an abnormality in future mammograms. 6. The Mammotome® probe is removed after the samples have been collected, and the single incision is closed with a small adhesive bandage.