1. To reduce any swelling or bruising at the biopsy site, place an ice pack on top of the dressing. Place the ice pack for 10 to 15 minutes at a time and then remove it. Do this 4 or 5 times this evening until you are ready to go to bed. You may discontinue ice once you go to bed. Many patients find that a package of frozen peas or corn works as an ice pack because it conforms nicely to the shape of the breast.
2. Do not shower or bathe for the first twenty-four hours. You may sponge bathe but keep the dressing dry.
3. After twenty-four hours you may remove the outer dressing. Leave the steri-strips (band-aid like dressing) in place for 3 to 4 days and then you may remove them. You can shower with the steri-strips on the skin.
4. Do not participate in strenuous activities for 48 hours following the biopsy. Strenuous activity may cause bleeding at the biopsy site. If you should have bleeding at the site, 20 minutes pressure needs to be applied preferably by another person to stop the bleeding. Bruising at the biopsy site is normal.
5. Watch for excessive bleeding, redness, skin changes, swelling or pain. Bleeding under the skin could present as a hard area (lump) that could take up to 6 weeks to resolve. If this area or hardness does not resolve after 6 weeks, contact your Primary Care Physician.
6. If you need medication for discomfort, we suggest Tylenol (if you are medically able to take it). Please do not take aspirin or aspirin related products such as Aleve, Motrin, ibuprofen, etc., until 24 hours after the biopsy.
7. The results of the biopsy will be called to your doctor, usually 3 to 5 working days from the time of your biopsy
8. If you have any questions, please contact UCD Mammography at 734-0686 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
These instructions provide a comprehensive guide for post-biopsy care after a breast biopsy procedure. Let's delve into the concepts involved here:
-
Swelling and Bruising Management: The use of ice packs is a common method to reduce swelling and bruising post-biopsy. Applying ice for short durations helps minimize tissue inflammation and discomfort. Frozen peas or corn, due to their malleability, conform well to the breast's shape, making them suitable substitutes for conventional ice packs.
-
Hygiene and Dressing Care: Avoiding showers or baths for the initial 24 hours is recommended to prevent the dressing from getting wet. However, sponge bathing while ensuring the dressing remains dry is permissible.
-
Dressing Removal: After 24 hours, the outer dressing can be removed, but the steri-strips (band-aid-like dressings) should be left intact for 3 to 4 days. These strips protect the biopsy site and can be kept on while showering.
-
Physical Activity Limitation: Strenuous activities should be avoided for the first 48 hours to prevent bleeding at the biopsy site. If bleeding occurs, applying pressure for 20 minutes can help stop it. Additionally, bruising is a normal occurrence.
-
Monitoring for Complications: Observing for signs of complications like excessive bleeding, skin changes, unusual swelling, or persistent pain is crucial. Any abnormal hardening or lumps lasting beyond 6 weeks should be reported to the Primary Care Physician.
-
Medication Guidelines: For discomfort, Tylenol is recommended, while aspirin and aspirin-related products should be avoided for the initial 24 hours to minimize bleeding risk.
-
Biopsy Result Notification: Typically, biopsy results are relayed to the doctor within 3 to 5 working days from the procedure.
-
Contact Information: The provided contact number for UCD Mammography (734-0686) between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. serves as a point of contact for any queries or concerns post-biopsy.
These instructions encompass various aspects of post-biopsy care, covering wound management, hygiene, activity restrictions, medication guidelines, monitoring for complications, and avenues for seeking assistance or information. The comprehensive nature of these directives reflects a holistic approach to ensuring proper recovery and managing any potential complications following a breast biopsy.
