A biopsy device having a cutting element is disclosed. The cutting element includes an inner cannula having a tissue receiving aperture disposed proximate a distal end thereof and an inner lumen. The inner cannula is slidably disposed within the inner lumen of an outer cannula. A vacuum chamber is disposed about at least a portion of the cutting element and is configured to create a vacuum in the cutting element during a biopsy procedure. The inner cannula is advanced distally outwardly and to cause the vacuum to be generated in the vacuum chamber. The vacuum is delivered to the cutting element whereby tissue is drawn into the tissue receiving aperture. The outer cannula is advanced distally outwardly after the inner cannula such that tissue drawn into the tissue cutting aperture is severed.