Biopsy

What is a biopsy?

A biopsy is an invasive procedure that involves taking a small sample of tissue or cells to be evaluated in a laboratory. Depending on the site of the lesion to be biopsied, a suitable modality (CT, ultrasound, or mammogram) will be used for guidance.

What preparation is needed?

Recent clotting factors (blood tests) should be available before the biopsy. The type of blood tests will depend on the biopsy.

Should you receive chronic anticoagulants or aspirin, please inform the radiology department before the examination (when you make the appointment). You may need to stop the medication 48 hours before the procedure. Discuss this with your referring physician.

  

In some cases, the radiologist will prescribe a “pre-medication” to reduce pain and anxiety during the procedure. This is an intra-muscular injection given 1 hour before the procedure.

You will be informed if you need to fast for the examination.

Informed Consent:

The radiographer and the performing radiologist will explain the procedure, risks, and possible complications to you. They will answer all the relevant questions you may have.

You will be asked to sign a consent form before the examination. Doing so indicates that you have understood the risks and benefits and permits us to proceed with the examination.

What to expect during the procedure:

  • Under the guidance of the appropriate imaging modality, the region of interest is located.

  • The radiologist will clean the region of interest using an antiseptic solution.

  • The radiologist will inject a local anaesthetic to numb the area of interest. This will ensure that the procedure is as painless and comfortable as possible.

  • The radiologist and radiographer will sterilely prepare all necessary equipment for the procedure.

  • The radiologist will make an incision in the appropriate area.

  • The radiologist will now take the biopsy samples.

  • The biopsy site will be cleaned up and covered with a dressing.

  • You will be discharged from the department when your condition is stable and all imaging is complete.

What to expect after the procedure:

Following the biopsy, you may experience some tenderness, bruising, and slight bleeding or oozing at the site with a small dressing. These symptoms may last several days but should not cause long-term effects. Should the oozing or bleeding worsen, please contact your physician.

What about the results?

The specimens are tested at PATHCARE and will be sent to your referring doctor. Please discuss your results with your doctor.