Biopsy

A biopsy is the removal of a small piece of tissue from the body, for example in the case of an inflammation or a tumor. This is done using a hollow needle, scalpel, or forceps. The removed tissue is called a biopsy sample and is sent to the laboratory for examination.

Who performs the biopsy?

A doctor performs the biopsy. This usually takes place in the hospital's radiology department. To remove the sample from exactly the right spot, the doctor often does this while performing an ultrasound or CT scan. This results in a more accurate sample that is also easier to examine.

How do you prepare for a biopsy?

There is not much to prepare for a biopsy. However, keep the following in mind:

• Anticoagulants make it harder for bleeding to stop. It is therefore important to temporarily stop taking these medicines. The doctor will tell you how to do this.
• From 2 hours before the test, do not eat or drink anything.
• Arrange for someone to take you home after the biopsy.

During the biopsy

A biopsy is performed as much as possible under local anesthesia. This makes the procedure less painful or even painless. Unfortunately, bones cannot be numbed, so a bone biopsy is painful. Children do go under general anesthesia during a biopsy.

The biopsy is performed after the skin has been disinfected. The doctor then inserts the needle at the spot where the tissue will be removed, or a small incision is made in the skin with a scalpel. When enough tissue has been removed, the biopsy is finished. A few stitches may be needed, or a bandage may be sufficient.

Taking a sample takes a total of so’n 20 to 60 minutes. This depends on the location and the amount of tissue that needs to be removed.

After the biopsy

In most cases, you may go home immediately after the biopsy. However, you may feel a bit unwell afterward. Therefore, always take someone with you to the appointment who can get you home safely.

The results of the test take a little while. It takes about a week before they are known. In the case of a bone biopsy, this can take a bit longer. The treating physician or your general practitioner will discuss the results with you.

In general, a biopsy does not cause serious side effects. The biopsy site may still be tender for a few days. This is normal. It’s wise to take it a bit easier for a while.

Difference between a biopsy and a puncture

A needle biopsy and a fine-needle aspiration are very similar, but there is a difference. In a fine-needle aspiration, a thinner needle is used that only draws up fluid or cells (so not tissue). It is therefore a less invasive test than a biopsy. However, less information can be obtained from this aspirate than from a biopsy sample.