What is ultrasound-guided breast cyst agocentesis

By Cristiano Antonino On Dec 31, 2022

What is ultrasound-guided mammary cyst agocentesis? Breast cyst agocentesis is both a diagnostic and therapeutic technique

It allows tissue and fluid samples to be taken from cysts located in the breast, leading to their emptying and sometimes relieving the associated pain.

It is performed under ultrasound guidance: the ultrasound images allow the precise location and depth at which to introduce the needle for aspiration.

What is the purpose of ultrasound-guided breast cyst agocentesis?

Unlike a normal needle biopsy, needle aspiration is indicated in the case of large breast cysts larger than 3 centimetres.

In some cases it allows complete emptying of breast cysts, reducing their painful impact.

This manoeuvre allows cytological examination of the cells present in the cyst fluid.

It is a good idea to always have the material taken analysed.

Are there any special preparation rules?

The person must wear comfortable clothing. It will be the caregiver’s responsibility to prepare the person so that the area is clear and accessible for the type of sampling.

Who can perform the examination?

There are no particular contraindications to performing the examination.

Is it painful or dangerous?

The examination is neither dangerous nor painful; it is performed without local anaesthesia.

How does ultrasound-guided mammary cyst agocentesis work?

The aspiration of cystic fluid is performed using a fine needle.

The person is made to lie supine on a couch with their arms overhead and the breast area uncovered.

In some cases the patient may be asked to lie on her side.

Immediately after the collection it may be helpful to manually compress the affected area for a few minutes to reduce the risk of bleeding.

In the following days, discomfort may occur in the sampling area, while the presence of small bruise-like patches that coincide with the small amount of blood in the tissues surrounding the spot should not be frightening.