Setup for a Breast Biopsy (Kingsborough Community College, Brooklyn, NY)

Proper preparation of the operative field is essential for safe and efficient breast biopsy procedures. This instructional video was recorded at Kingsborough Community College and illustrates a setup performed by a certified surgical technologist. This demonstration includes preparation of the Mayo stand, back table, and ring stand; verification of medications on the sterile field; instrument organization; and performance of the initial count with the circulating nurse. This setup aligns with established best practices for a breast biopsy, which is a diagnostic technique used to examine suspicious breast lesions discovered through histologic examination. This demonstration aims to reinforce standardized preparation practices that support patient safety and efficient surgical workflow.

Breast biopsies are routinely performed to establish a definitive diagnosis for suspicious breast lesions detected on imaging or physical examination.^1,2 Image-guided, core-needle biopsy is widely used due to its safety and reliability, with guidelines emphasizing standardized sterile preparation and instrument management.³

The Mayo stand, back table, and ring stand are covered with sterile drapes, and all required supplies are arranged in an organized fashion. Medications provided by the circulating nurse are verified (name, dosage, expiration date) and labeled. The ring stand holds the towels, gowns, and gloves for the surgeon and assistant, as well as patient drapes, which are arranged in sequence of use. Additional items include light-handle covers, a single-use, skin-prep stick, and suction tubing.

Before the sterile instrument tray is received onto the sterile field, the outer wrapper is inspected by the circulator and surgical technologist for contamination and the inner chemical indicator is checked to confirm that the critical parameters for sterilization have been met. Once the tray is placed onto the sterile field,  instruments are removed and arranged: the stringer is placed on a towel roll, retractors are grouped together, and forceps are separated according to their tips (smooth or piercing). Knife handles are placed close to the sharps container.

The initial count is performed with the circulator and includes all soft goods, sharps, instruments and other countable items such as a marking pen. The initial count is important because it provides a baseline of all countable items prior to incision, which reduces the risk of retained objects inside the patient.

Once the setup and initial count are completed, the surgical technologist is prepared to gown and glove the surgical team and assist them throughout the procedure.

Educational videos that demonstrate appropriate operative setup provide support for students and new surgical technologists as they familiarize themselves with various surgical setups. They also offer visual reinforcement of sterile technique, promote proficiency in organizing instrumentation, and increase understanding of workflow sequences. Such resources bridge the gap between didactic instruction and clinical performance, increasing readiness, reducing anxiety, and promoting safer intraoperative participation.

Nothing to disclose.