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Abstract

The present invention is directed to a biopsy needle orientation fixture for use in association with diagnostic mammography equipment, and in particular, a horizontal stereotactic mammography x-ray machine having a radiation source. The biopsy needle orientation fixture comprises a substantially L-shaped frame having both horizontal and vertical members. The horizontal and vertical members are joined at one end, while the second end of the horizontal member houses a vertical needle guide, and the second end of the vertical member houses a horizontal needle guide. The horizontal and vertical needle guides allow a biopsy procedure to be performed accurately along both vertical and horizontal needle pathways. The fixture further comprises a means for mounting the substantially L-shaped frame to the stereotactic mammography x-ray machine, and a displacement from alignment with the horizontal needle path in the horizontal member. This displacement from alignment allows radiation to image and identify the horizontal needle position both before and after a breast lesion is biopsied.

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First Claim