Interdisciplinary Consensus on the Uses and Technique of MR-guided Vacuum-assisted Breast Biopsy (VAB): Results of a European Consensus Meeting

Purpose: Quality assurance of MR-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VAB).

Method: A consensus was achieved based on the existing literature and experience of an interdisciplinary group comprising European specialists in breast imaging and VAB.

Results: Full imaging work-up must be completed according to existing standards before an indication for MR-guided VAB is established. The procedure should be reserved for lesions demonstrable by MRI alone. Acquisition of >24 cores (11-Gauge) should be routinely attempted, with the intention of sufficiently removing small lesions for accurate diagnosis. Following biopsy the patient should be re-imaged to demonstrate the biopsy site and its proximity to the lesion and hence the likely accuracy of the sampling. All patients should be discussed in a regular interdisciplinary conference and a documented consensus reached regarding patient management. Regular audit and review of all MR-guided VAB results and subsequent follow-up are recommended.

Conclusion: This consensus includes protocols for the indication, performance parameters, interdisciplinary interpretation therapeutic recommendation, documentation and follow-up of MR-guided VAB. It does not replace official recommendations for percutaneous biopsy.