Which imaging modality is most commonly utilized for guiding a core biopsy?

Ultrasound is the most commonly utilized imaging modality for guiding a core biopsy, particularly in breast imaging. This is primarily because ultrasound provides real-time imaging, allowing the clinician to visualize the target area accurately and adjust the needle's position as necessary. This dynamic capability enhances the precision of the biopsy procedure, significantly improving the likelihood of obtaining a representative tissue sample.

Additionally, ultrasound is a non-ionizing imaging technology, making it a safer option for patients compared to modalities that utilize ionizing radiation, such as CT scans and mammography. Given its ability to distinguish between solid and cystic lesions, ultrasound can help healthcare providers decide on the best approach for biopsy, further emphasizing its utility in this context.

While mammography can also be used to guide biopsies, especially for calcifications or microcalcifications, its use is less common compared to ultrasound due to the lack of real-time imaging. MRI is less frequently used for guiding biopsies, particularly in routine practice, because it can be more complex and time-consuming. CT scans, although effective for certain biopsy procedures in other anatomical areas, are not typically used for breast biopsies. Thus, ultrasound stands out as the preferred method due to its accessibility, efficiency, and effectiveness in breast biopsy guidance.