Fine-needle aspiration of the breast: the outpatient management of breast lesions

Fine-needle aspiration of the breast has become a well-accepted diagnostic tool for the management of breast lesions. When employed on an ambulatory basis it is both accurate and cost-effective. This study of a series of patients managed over a 2-year period demonstrates the use of this technique in an ambulatory gynecologic practice. Results demonstrate this to be a very rapidly accomplished, effective procedure that is very well accepted by the patients. Results are generally available within 24 hours and permit both the physician and the patient to accurately predict the course of management. In addition, it allows the primary physician to accurately determine which patients will require in-hospital management and which may safely undergo ambulatory, office-based biopsy of solid lesions. Experience shows this to be a valuable diagnostic tool that can be safely utilized by the practicing gynecologist.