Antithrombotic Therapy: Evaluation of the Safety of Performing Core Needle Biopsy of the Breast Without Suspending Medication

Background: Patients are increasingly presenting for outpatient breast biopsy while taking medically necessary antithrombotic therapy. Cessation of this medication prior to biopsy increases patients’ risk of vascular complications. 


Objectives: This article evaluates the safety of performing core needle biopsies of the breast in patients without suspending prescription antithrombotic therapy. 


Methods: In this retrospective chart review study, patients continued prescription antithrombotic therapy prior to and including the day of biopsy. Follow-up telephone assessment, relying on patient self-report, was completed on the same or next business day. The chart review included report of bleeding as a postprocedure complication.


Findings: None of the 42 women who completed core needle biopsy of the breast while on antithrombotic therapy reported postdischarge bleeding, and 2 reported hematoma, supporting the safety of continuing antithrombotic therapy in patients who undergo core needle biopsy of the breast.