The study compares the diagnostic performance of vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB) with core needle biopsy (CNB) for suspicious breast lesions. Comparative studies from PubMed and the Cochrane Library were evaluated, analysing key endpoints such as ADH and DCIS underestimation, repeat biopsies, histological concordance and calcium retrieval. In total, 60 studies were included out of 937 identified records. The findings are relevant for breast diagnostics and care processes, as a more precise initial diagnosis can reduce follow-up procedures and accelerate treatment decisions.
Vacuum-assistedbreastbiopsycomparedwithcoreneedlebiopsy
More precise diagnostics and fewer repeat biopsies for suspicious breast lesions
“Compared with core needle biopsy, vacuum-assisted breast biopsy shows advantages in diagnostic certainty and an efficient patient workflow.”
Key results
- Significantly lower ADH underestimation with VABB: RR 0.63; 95% CI 0.55–0.72; 22 studies
- Significantly lower DCIS underestimation with VABB: RR 0.47; 95% CI 0.39–0.58; 27 studies
- Fewer repeat biopsies with VABB: RR 0.78; 95% CI 0.69–0.88; 9 studies
- Higher concordance with surgical histology: RR 1.07; 95% CI 1.04–1.11; 12 studies
- Higher calcium retrieval rate with VABB: RR 1.09; 95% CI 1.04–1.14; 11 studies
Classification and conclusion
The results support considering VABB as a diagnostically capable first-line method for selected suspicious breast lesions. This is particularly relevant for non-palpable lesions, microcalcifications and architectural distortions, where a representative tissue sample is decisive. At the same time, the study notes that differences in image guidance, reference standards and biopsy protocols can influence the results.
Compared with CNB, VABB can support a more precise diagnostic work-up of suspicious breast lesions. The method reduces relevant underestimations and repeat biopsies and can thereby contribute to clearer treatment decisions and more efficient care processes.
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