Biopsy

A biopsy is the removal of a small piece of tissue from the body, for instance to investigate an inflammation or tumor. This procedure is performed using a hollow needle, scalpel, or forceps. The removed tissue, called a biopsy specimen, is sent to the laboratory for examination.

Who performs a biopsy?

A doctor performs the biopsy, typically in the hospital's radiology department. To ensure the biopsy is taken from the correct location, the doctor often performs the procedure while using ultrasound or CT scan for guidance. This results in a more accurate biopsy and provides a specimen that is easier to analyze in the laboratory.

How to prepare for a biopsy

Little preparation is required for a biopsy. However, you should take the following into account:

• Anticoagulants can increase the risk of bleeding. It is important to temporarily stop taking these medications before the procedure. Your doctor will provide specific instructions.
• You should not eat or drink anything for 2 hours before the procedure.
• Arrange for someone to accompany you and take you home after the biopsy.

What happens during the biopsy

A biopsy is typically performed under local anesthesia, which makes the procedure less painful or pain-free. Unfortunately, local anesthesia is not effective for bone tissue. Therefore, a bone biopsy can be painful. Children do go under general anaesthesia during a biopsy.

The doctor begins the biopsy after disinfecting the skin at the procedure site. The doctor then inserts the needle at the biopsy site to remove the tissue sample. Alternatively, the doctor may make a small incision in the skin using a scalpel. Once an adequate tissue sample has been obtained, the biopsy is complete. A few stitches may be required, or a simple adhesive bandage may be sufficient to cover the site.

The biopsy procedure usually takes between 20 and 60 minutes, depending on the location and the amount of tissue to be removed.

After the biopsy

Most patients can go home shortly after the biopsy. However, you may experience some discomfort afterward. For this reason, always arrange for someone to accompany you to the appointment and take you home safely.

The results of the biopsy are usually available within about a week. For a bone biopsy, results may take slightly longer than a week.Your treating physician or general practitioner (GP) will discuss the results with you.

n general, a biopsy rarely causes serious side effects. The biopsy site may feel tender for a few days, which is normal. It is advisable to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a short period after the procedure.

Difference between a biopsy and a fine-needle aspiration

A needle biopsy and a fine-needle aspiration are similar procedures, but there are important differences. During fine-needle aspiration, a thinner needle is used to extract fluid or cells, rather than a tissue sample. This makes fine-needle aspiration a less invasive procedure than a biopsy. However, a biopsy specimen provides more detailed information than fluid or cells obtained through fine-needle aspiration.