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Fine Needle


FNA, the most common type of breast biopsy, is a simple procedure that involves inserting a very thin needle into the breast tissue and extracting a small sample for further testing.

Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA Biopsy) in Long Island & Queens

What is fine needle aspiration (FNA)?

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is the simplest type of biopsy that uses a very small needle to withdraw a tiny sample of tissue from a suspicious area of the body, often in the breast. Typically, the exam is performed after your doctor physically examines your breast or another area and identifies a lump. Other times, the exam may be done after a diagnostic imaging test identifies an abnormality. After an FNA biopsy, the breast tissue sample is sent to a lab to determine if cancerous cells are present and a detailed report is sent back to the doctor.

Why is an FNA biopsy performed?

FNA is the simplest biopsy to undergo, used to evaluate a lump or other irregularity found during a clinical exam. Often times, an FNA is used to determine whether a breast lump is a fluid-filled cyst or a solid mass. This helps doctors determine whether further testing is needed and often allows you to avoid more invasive biopsy procedures.

What does an FNA biopsy involve?

At Neighborhood Radiology Services, we perform FNA testing in-office during a single visit. Before the procedure, you may be asked to change into a gown, depending on the location of your biopsy. Then, you will lie down on a cushioned exam table. Depending on your needs, your doctor may use a local anesthetic to ensure that you experience no discomfort during the biopsy.

During the procedure, your radiologist will use a very small needle attached to a syringe to withdraw—or aspirate—tiny bits of tissue from the suspicious area. The needle used for FNA is even smaller than those used for blood testing, and is smaller than other biopsy needles. In some cases, your doctor will also use an ultrasound to help pinpoint the exact area for the biopsy.

After your FNA is complete, your skin will be cleaned and a small bandage is placed over the biopsied area. Once your results are available, your radiologist will go over them in detail with you and discuss next steps, as needed.

Are there other types of biopsy procedures available at Neighborhood Radiology Services?

There are several different breast biopsy procedures offered at Neighborhood Radiology Services, including:

Discuss your breast biopsy options with one of our board-certified radiologists to determine the best option for you.

What are the benefits of undergoing an FNA biopsy?

The benefits of undergoing an FNA biopsy with the board-certified radiologists at Neighborhood Radiology Services include:

  • Minimally invasive procedure
  • Little or no discomfort during procedure
  • Uses a smaller needle than other biopsy procedures
  • Can help detect the cause of breast abnormalities, including cancer

If you need to book a fine needle aspiration, contact our board-certified radiologists at Neighborhood Radiology Services, with locations throughout the New York Metropolitan Area. Fill out the form on this page to request an appointment or call 800-220-2220 to learn more about our services.

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