Peter David Thurley MBBS, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Andrew Evans MBBS, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Lisa J. Hamilton FRCR, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Jonathan James BMBS, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Robin Wilson FRCR, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy, complications and patient satisfaction for vacuum assisted biopsy (VAB) excision of fibroadenomas (FA’s).

All patients referred for VAB of presumed or proven FA, from 11.12.02-30.11.06 were identified prospectively. Histology, lesion size, and US assessed completeness of excision were recorded. Clinical and US assessment at 1 year was planned. A questionnaire also was sent at least a year following removal to assess pain (from 1(no pain)-10(worst pain imaginable)), complications, residual palpable lesions and cosmetic result in patients with fibroadenomas.

81 fibroadenomas (age 16-64, median 31yrs) were removed. 48 (59%) replied to the questionnaire. 54 % of patients reported no pain during the procedure, 8% rated their pain as >2/10. 32 % had no pain the week after the procedure, 55% had pain >2/10. 79 % of patients could not feel a mass at the previous lesion site. 96% of patients would recommend the procedure to others and would prefer a further VAB to surgery. The commonest complication was bruising (38% mild, 33% moderate and 19% severe), one patient required aspiration of a haematoma. 85% of patients were completely satisfied with the cosmetic result. Follow-up US was performed in 36 patients. A palpable mass was present in 11%, a non-palpable mass in 19% and no mass visible in 70%.

VAB excision of FA’s is well tolerated, safe and popular. The success rate is moderate. Bruising and pain are common the week following the procedure.

Large bore vacuum assisted biopsy is an alternative to surgery for removal of benign breast lesions. Establishing the efficacy and tolerability of this is essential to guide patient management.

Thurley, P, Evans, A, Hamilton, L, James, J, Wilson, R, Vacuum-assisted Excision Biopsy of Fibroadenomas: Patient Satisfaction and Efficacy.  Radiological Society of North America 2008 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, February 18 - February 20, 2008 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2008/6005374.html