Bone lesion biopsy
Key points
- A bone lesion biopsy is a test in which a piece of bone or bone marrow is removed for examination.
- A bone lesion biopsy involves removal of a small piece of bone for examination.
- If the procedure will be performed using general anesthesia, fasting for 6 to 8 hours is usually required.
- The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience.
Alternative names
Bone biopsy; Biopsy - bone
Definition
A bone lesion biopsy is a test in which a piece of bone or bone marrow is removed for examination.
How the test is performed
A bone lesion biopsy involves removal of a small piece of bone for examination. A special drill needle is usually used. A local anesthetic is given (to numb the area, the patient remains conscious), a small (about 1/8 inch) incision is made in the skin and the biopsy needle is pushed and twisted into the bone.
Once the sample is obtained, the needle is twisted out and the sample is sent for examination. Pressure is applied to the site. Once bleeding stops, the site is cleaned and covered with a bandage.
Bone biopsy may also be performed under general anesthesia for surgical excision (cutting out) of a piece of bone. Excision provides a larger specimen and may permit immediate surgical removal if examination indicates a malignant (cancerous) tumor.
How to prepare for the test
You may be asked to fast before a bone biopsy. If the procedure will be performed using general anesthesia, fasting for 6 to 8 hours is usually required.
You must sign a consent form.
For infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
- Infant test/procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
- Toddler test/procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
- Preschooler test/procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
- Schoolage test/procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
- Adolescent test/procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)
How the test will feel
With a needle biopsy, you may feel moderate discomfort and pressure, even though a local anesthetic is used. You must remain still during the procedure.
After the biopsy, the area may be sore or tender for several days.
Why the test is performed
The most common reasons for bone lesion biopsy are to distinguish between benign and malignant bone tumors and to identify other bone abnormalities. It may be performed on people with bone pain and tenderness, particularly if X-ray, CT scan, or other testing reveals a mass (aggregation of cells) or abnormality.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.