FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATION BIOPSY
Procedure Basics
What is Aspiration Biopsy?
A biopsy is sampling of an abnormal area of tissue growth such as a nodule in the thyroid, a lump in the breast or an enlarged lymph gland. Sampling by aspiration biopsy is similar to sampling blood from a vein in your arm, except the needle is thinner. The needle is inserted into the lump and a drop of semisolid material is withdrawn for testing.
What is the purpose of performing an Aspiration Biopsy?
A lump can be the result of scar tissue, a cyst, an infection or an abnormal growth such as cancer. X-rays and blood tests cannot determine the exact nature of the lump so analyzing tissue taken directly from the lump helps your doctor determine appropriate treatment.
Procedure Details
What happens during the biopsy?
Fees
All patients are required to pay a base gap fee of $135 as part of Austpath’s billing policy.
Results
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The results will be sent directly to your referring doctor
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We will send you a text message 48 hours after the results have been sent to your doctor
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Your results will be available on "My Health Record" within 7-10 days
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Please contact your doctor to discuss the biopsy results, what they mean and what should be done next
Quality Control
Infection control precautions used with all patients at Austpath include the following;
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Disposable gloves, FNA needles, core biopsy needles and biopsy trays
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Disposable ultrasound transducer cover
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Reusable needles for use with Franzen biopsy guide – Autoclaved at Westmead Private Hospital
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Hand hygiene (Washing hands with water and neutral hand soap or antimicrobial soap)
Additional Notes
Medical Certificate
If a medical certificate is required, please inform reception before your biopsy
Photography
No photography or video recording is permitted in the biopsy room.
Additional Feedback
Please email sophie.c@austpath.com.au