Biopsy

The biopsy is a procedure in which a needle is used to obtain a tiny sample of tissue in order to identify the cause of an abnormal lump or mass within the body. CT, Ultrasound or X-Ray is used by the radiologist to guide a thin needle safely and accurately into an abnormal lump or mass. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area prior to the biopsy. In order to obtain an adequate tissue specimen, a second or third biopsy may be required through the already numbed area.

The tissue is then sent to the Laboratory for evaluation by a pathologist and usually requires 1-3 business days for final results. Patients should obtain the results of the biopsy from their doctor who ordered the procedure. Patients should expect to remain in the hospital after the biopsy for a recovery time of 15 minutes to 4 hours depending on the location that was biopsied or the radiologist's discretion. Typically, liver, kidney, and lung biopsies will remain in the hospital for 3-4 hours whereas breast, thyroid or lymph node biopsies can have recovery times under 1 hour.

If this biopsy is being performed because of an abnormality found on another imaging study, the patient should bring those films and the report with them at the time of their biopsy.

Patient Preparation:

1. Consult your doctor about whether or not to take medications such as blood thinners like Coumadin or Aspirin.
 

2. Inform the radiologist of any history of medication allergies, easy bruisability or history of bleeding problems.
 

3. Bring all of your medications with you.

After Discharge:

1. Limit activity for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

2. Patients may shower the next morning.

3. Patient will be given care instructions upon discharge from the hospital.