Evaluation of Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System Category 3 mammograms and the use of stereotactic vacuum-assisted breast biopsy in a nonacademic community practice.

Background: Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) Category 3 represents 'probably benign' mammographic abnormalities requiring close follow-up, but biopsies sometimes are performed on Category 3 abnormalities. Controversy exists as to when these biopsies are justified. The goals of the current study were to evaluate the use of stereotactic vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (SVABB) for BI-RADS 3 lesions in a nonacademic community hospital-based practice, to evaluate the false- negative rate of Category 3 mammograms, and to determine whether any specific lesions misinterpreted as BI-RADS 3 abnormalities might commonly be associated with malignant disease.