- Patients
- Cancer diagnosis
- Pathology tests
- Core biopsy
Core biopsy
Core biopsies are a less invasive procedure than an excisional biopsy.
Diagnosis using core biopsy
This is the most common type of biopsy and is similar to a fine needle aspiration (FNA), but it uses a slightly wider, hollow needle to remove a small piece of breast tissue from the area of concern.
Advantages of core biopsy
Removing a piece of tissue, rather than just cells allows the pathologist to examine any areas of concern in detail and it often gives more information than fluid and cells taken by an FNA. It is less invasive than an excisional biopsy and will leave no scars.
What to expect during a core biopsy
You will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the relevant area, and once it takes effect a small nick or cut is made in the skin and the biopsy needle is carefully inserted.
Usually, a few samples are required and you may hear a clicking noise as each one is taken.
It may feel slightly uncomfortable but the local anaesthetic will stop it feeling painful.
Once the samples have been taken, the area will be pressed on firmly to help reduce any bleeding and bruising and then it will be covered with a dressing. The area may feel sore for a few days following the biopsy, but it should soon clear up. We will fast-track your biopsy results to ensure you know the outcome within a week, sometimes sooner, and will contact you with details of a follow-up appointment to discuss them.
Meet our doctors
Everything we do is focused on designing better care for our patients.
With a network of 14 specialist oncology treatment centres across the UK, we provide the most up-to-date treatments and technology as standard. We attract and retain some of the most experienced doctors in the country, who all have a passion for improving patient outcomes and specialise in the treatment of different types of cancer.
Read next
Doctors
Our doctors
GenesisCare works with many leading and experienced cancer doctors who share our commitment to providing excellent patient care
Centres
Our centres
With 440 centres across the world, we're continuing to diagnose and treat without delay, bringing specialist care closer to our patients in the UK, Spain, Australia and the US.
Cancer care
Exploring cancer care
We are the UK’s leading private provider of advanced radiotherapy and cancer care. We offer fast access to the latest technology and treatments that has been proven to make a difference.
Cancer care
How can we help?
Accessing world-class cancer care is easier than you think. Follow these easy steps to get treatment, tests and scans, or a second opinion at GenesisCare, and find out the different ways of funding your cancer care.
Patient support
Patient stories
We believe patients can be our teachers and trusted advisers, benefiting from their unique experiences.