Feature|Articles|July 20, 2026

Half a Year Into the Breast Biopsy Needle Shortage, Clinicians Lean on Networks, Not Workarounds

Fact checked by: Tim Cortese

A breast surgeon and a radiologist describe the impact the breast biopsy needle shortage has had on their current clinical practice.

When Hologic recalled its Brevera Breast Biopsy System disposable 9-gauge needle on January 2, 2026, citing a risk of metal and plastic particles dislodging into patients or specimens during use, the ripple effects were felt across breast oncology.¹ The needle wasn’t a niche product. It was one of the main products used by radiologists for breast biopsy imaging.