MASSES IN BREASTS WITH IMPLANTS - DIAGNOSIS WITH US-GUIDED FINE-NEEDLE ASPIRATION BIOPSY

PURPOSE: To evaluate retrospectively the findings at ultrasound (US)-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of masses in breasts that contain a prosthesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Realtime US-guided FNAB was performed in 22 lesions in 17 patients with breast implants. Pneumocystography was performed in seven of eight cysts. The final diagnosis was based on either histologic findings after surgical excision or a combination of cytologic, imaging, and clinical findings. RESULTS: The lesions had a mean diameter of 15 mm +/- 9 (standard deviation). Fifteen lesions (68%) were not identified on mammograms. In all cases, FNAB was completed without complication. Pneumocystography was successful in seven of seven cysts. Cytologic diagnosis was correct in 21 of 22 lesions (95%). There was one ease of inadequate specimen (5%). In 16 cases (73%), the diagnosis was established with a single pass. CONCLUSION: Real-time US allowed continuous visualization of the needle during insertion and sampling, which resulted in pinpoint accuracy and safety. US-guided FNAB is recommended for needle biopsy in breasts with implants.