BIOPSY PROCEDURE
What is involved?
Biopsy Process
Dr Chandraratnam will do an ultrasound and record size of the lump and its exact location. This ensures that you and your doctor know exactly what was biopsied. The biopsy needle is attached to a syringe and gently inserted into your lump for a few seconds and a sample is collected.
To ensure that sampling is representative, more samples may be taken from different areas of the lump. More samples are usually required in a large or complex lesion or in a lump that contains few cells. After the biopsy, firm pressure is applied to the lump to stop any bleeding. The biopsy is then checked immediately to ensure that an adequate sample has been obtained.
Biopsy Limitations
Despite the care devoted to each biopsy no medical investigation is 100% accurate. The reported incidence of a biopsy failing to find a malignancy is up to 10%. So a benign diagnosis is not final. You and your doctor should continue to watch the lump and/or do other investigations such as X-rays or laboratory tests. If the lump enlarges, it is imperative that you see your doctor and the lump is resampled.
Possible Complications
Bruising, tenderness, or mild swelling in the area of the biopsy occurs in about a quarter of patients. In our experience this disappears within a few days. We find that an ice pack or non-aspirin medication, such as Panadol, helps some patients. Complications such as rapid swelling, bleeding or infection are extremely rare. If these or any unusual symptoms occur, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Second Thoughts?
Most patients look upon aspiration biopsy as they would a blood test. However some put off scheduling the biopsy, or fail to keep an appointment. This is caused by a fear of needles or of what the biopsy may find. Rather than risk delay in your diagnosis, we urge you to make and keep your appointment with us.
If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to call.