Breast stabilization devices and imaging and interventional methods using same

Abstract

A breast stabilization device for imaging and invasive medical procedures includes a shell configured to surround a superior portion of a breast when the breast rests on a substantially flat surface. The shell includes a first opening configured to allow at least a portion of a nipple-areolar complex of the breast to protrude therethrough. A first and second flange extend from the shell to secure the shell to the flat surface. A third flange may also be included to secure the shell to the patient's chest wall. The shell includes a substantially rigid outer member and a relatively softer inner member that is in contact with the patient's breast when the device is in use. The substantially rigid outer member includes a suction port and the relatively softer inner member includes a through holes in fluid communication with the suction port, to allow a patient's breast to be drawn toward the inner member when fluid is drawn from the suction port. Imaging and interventional procedures may be carried out through the opening by making an incision in the superior portion of the peri-areolar border. Both surface and intra-tissue ultrasound may be utilized to localize the lesion and to provide real time imaging of the uncompressed and stabilized breast during the breast-stabilized biopsy or excisional procedure.