Needle Biopsy

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KEY POINTS

• A needle biopsy is a procedure that uses a needle to remove cells or a small piece of tissue. It used to help diagnose infections, cancer, and other diseases.
• Ask your provider how long it will take to recover and how to take care of yourself at home.
• Make sure you know what symptoms or problems you should watch for and what to do if you have them.

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What is a needle biopsy?

A needle biopsy is the removal of cells or a small piece of tissue with a needle. A needle biopsy most often uses a thin, hollow needle put through your skin into your body. A core needle biopsy uses a larger hollow needle to remove a solid piece of tissue.

When is it used?

Needle biopsies may be used to help diagnose infections, cancer, and other diseases.

How do I prepare for this procedure?

• You may or may not need to take your regular medicines the day of the procedure. Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines and supplements that you take. Some products may increase your risk of side effects. Ask your healthcare provider if you need to avoid taking any medicine or supplements before the procedure.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you have any food, medicine, or other allergies such as latex.
• Follow any other instructions your provider may give you.
• Ask any questions you have before the procedure. You should understand what your healthcare provider is going to do. You have the right to make decisions about your healthcare and to give permission for any tests or procedures.

What happens during the procedure?

The biopsy may be done at your provider's office, an outpatient clinic, or the hospital.

You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the needle will be inserted. It will keep you from feeling pain during the biopsy.

Your provider may use a CT or ultrasound scan to find the exact location of the tissue to be biopsied. Your healthcare provider will insert a needle into the area to remove cells or tissue. The cells or tissue will be sent to the lab for tests.

Your provider may put a small bandage over the area where the needle went through your skin.

What happens after the procedure?

You may have some swelling or bruising in the area of the biopsy. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. Ask your healthcare provider:

• How and when you will get your test results
• If there are activities you should avoid and when you can return to your normal activities
• How to take care of yourself at home
• What symptoms or problems you should watch for and what to do if you have them

Make sure you know when you should come back for a checkup. Keep all appointments for provider visits or tests.

What are the risks of this procedure?

Every procedure or treatment has risks. Some possible risks of this procedure include:

• You may have problems with anesthesia.
• You may have infection or bleeding.
• Other parts of your body may be injured during the procedure.

Ask your healthcare provider how these risks apply to you. Be sure to discuss any other questions or concerns that you may have.