We believe there's strength in numbers.

If you’ve ever received an abnormal mammogram result, you know the worry and anxiety that can follow. Breast abnormalities, however, are not uncommon and do not automatically mean that you have breast cancer. Following an abnormal result, additional imaging tests may be performed and your physician may recommend that a breast biopsy be done.

Siemens is proud to partner with Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., a Johnson & Johnson company, to educate women about breast biopsy. The attached brochures provide general information regarding breast biopsy, including biopsy options and commonly used terms.

Q: My doctor told me that my mammogram results were ‘abnormal’. What does this mean?

A: An abnormal mammogram does not necessarily mean that you have breast cancer. In fact, many of these results may be benign, meaning non-cancerous. To be sure, your doctor may perform additional testing.

Q: If a biopsy is performed, how large is the incision that will be made in my breast?

A: This depends on the biopsy method used. Open surgical biopsy requires a one to two inch incision, and often requires stitches. If core needle biopsy is performed, multiple needle insertions will be made, but stitches are rarely required.