Ductal Evaluation

What is a ductoscopy?
Ductoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that is done on an outpatient basis in the doctor’s office by a specially trained physician. It allows the doctor to view abnormalities in the breast duct. The procedure can be done on patients that have abnormal nipple discharge and when physical exam and mammography have been negative. Ductoscopy can also be used for evaluation of high risk patients with nipple discharge. 

How is ductoscopy performed?
Ductoscopy is performed under local anesthesia. We will provide you with a “comfort pack” which includes topical anesthesia to be applied one hour prior to the procedure. 

The duct that is producing fluid will be dilated with a probe. A fiberoptic flexible endoscope will then be inserted into the duct. This allows the doctor to visualize the mammary ducts on a computer monitor. The doctor will insert some additional local anesthesia into the duct along with a saline solution to distend the duct for better visualization and to provide maximum comfort during the procedure. Besides direct inspection of the ductal system using ductoscopy, the doctor can also obtain biopsies of the duct lining that will be sent to a lab for analysis.

What kind of follow-up care is needed?
There is minimal discomfort after a ductoscopy. A feeling of fullness and some mild pressure usually disappear within 48 hours when your body absorbs the saline fluid, which is like your own body’s natural fluid. The doctor will want to see you for a post-op visit and to discuss the biopsy results. The biopsy results usually take 48-72 hours.  Depending on the results, you may need further work-up or return to routine care.