The goal of a stereotactic biopsy is to take a tissue sample of an abnormality identified on a mammogram. Stereotactic biopsies use “stereo” x-rays (x-rays taken from different angles) and a special biopsy needle to get tissue samples. During the procedure, you are positioned in front of the stereotactic machine, or face down on a table (varies by center). The breast is cleaned and skin is numbed with a needle. Your breast is then positioned with slight compression and several x-ray images will be taken in order to locate the abnormality in question. Once a needle is inserted, additional x-rays will be taken to ensure accurate placement. Tissue is obtained from the numbed breast. After the biopsy, a tiny tissue marker is placed in the breast to mark the biopsy area for reference on future mammograms.