Stereotactic biopsies are used when a suspicious area is visible on a mammogram but cannot be seen on an ultrasound (common with tiny calcium deposits called microcalcifications).

• Positioning: The patient typically lies face down on a specialized table with the breast hanging through an opening, or sits in a specialized chair.

• X-Ray Targeting: The breast is compressed (similar to a mammogram), and X-rays are taken from two different angles to triangulate the exact 3D coordinates of the target.

• Precision: A computer-guided probe is then used to remove the tissue with sub-millimeter accuracy.