Breast stabilization devices and methods

Abstract

A breast stabilization device includes a substantially rigid outer member and an inner member joined to the outer member. The inner member is configured to conform to the shape of the female breast. An opening is disposed through the outer and inner members, the opening being centered on the nipple/areolar complex of the breast and exposing at least a portion of the areola surrounding the nipple. A rigid rim may surround the periphery of the opening and may rise above the surface of the outer member. The device stabilizes the breast in an uncompressed or slightly expanded state to allow interventional and imaging procedures to be carried out without compressing the breast. The opening allows access to the breast through the areola and the rim allows one or more instruments to be attached thereto. A method of imaging a breast, according to the present invention, includes the steps of placing a generally breast shaped member on the breast, the breast shaped member having one or more imaging port therein; expanding the breast to come into intimate contact with the breast shaped member; and imaging the breast through the imaging port(s). The imaging step may be carried out by directing ultrasonic energy through the port(s).