Fletcher Allen, a Vermont university hospital and medical center, serves all of
Vermont and the northern New York region. Located in Burlington, Fletcher Allen is a regional, academic healthcare center and teaching hospital in alliance with the University of Vermont.
Biopsy Procedures
A biopsy is performed because a previous radiology test showed an abnormality. It is not clear what the abnormal tissue is, and a small sample of tissue is required to find out. The results can then guide the appropriate choice of treatment.
Biopsies are performed using image guidance: ultrasound, CT, MRI, or fluoroscopy.
Image-guided biopsies involve placing a biopsy needle into the affected area.
If your doctor requested a liver biopsy but going trough the skin directly above the liver poses many risks, he may choose to do it trough a vein. In this case the Interventional Radiologist will go through a vein in your neck (Jugular vein). Using guide wires and contrast dye, the Radiologist will locate vessels within the liver, and then puncture into the liver to obtain samples.
What happens during the procedure?
Conscious sedation is provided just prior to starting the procedure.You will lie flat on the x-ray or CT table and be connected to several types of monitoring equipment. The technologist will prepare the skin over the area by cleaning it with an antiseptic solution and placing sterile drapes and towels over you to create a sterile work space. Lidocaine (local anesthesia) is injected into the overlying skin. A needle is directed into the abnormality using image guidance and a sample of the tissue is obtained. Often more than one sample is obtained to ensure an adequate evaluation of the lesion. The needle is removed and a dressing or band aid is applied.
What happens after the procedure?
Patients are observed in a recovery area for 2 hours before going home.If you had a lung biopsy you will have a chest X-Ray just prior to discharge.Have a responsible adult drive you and remain with you the rest of the day if possible. You may resume your normal diet after the procedure. Avoid alcoholic beverages and depressant drugs for 24 hours.
DO NOT take aspirin-containing products (Bufferin, Excedrin, Ecotrin, etc.), Ibuprofen, vitamin E, or blood thinning products (Coumadin, Plavix) for 24 hours after the procedure. You may take Tylenol (1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours) for mild discomfort. Call the Interventional Radiology Office for pain, unrelieved by Tylenol for the first 24 hours following your procedure.
Call your physician immediately if you experience any of the following signs/Symptoms:
- Rapid Heart Rate or Pulse
- Shortness of Breath
- Upper back or chest pain
- Sweating
- Sudden onset of anxiety
- Feeling Faint
- Bloody Stool
- Saturation of the Band-Aid or dressing
Check the dressing or Band-Aid throughout the day for any increase in drainage. Keep the Band-Aid or dressing dry for 24 hours. Replace the Band-Aid if necessary. If you notice brisk bleeding, apply pressure for 10 minutes and slowly release the pressure to see if the bleeding has stopped. If the bleeding does not stop, seek medical advice at the nearest Emergency Room.The results of your biopsy are sent to the Physician who ordered the procedure. It may take 2-5 days for procedure results to come back.
If you have any questions or need to reschedule an appointment please feel free to contact the Interventional Radiology Office at 802- 847-8359. Our business hours are Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Someone is available to take your call after hours for emergencies.
This information is provided by the Fletcher Allen Health Care, Department of Radiology, Division of Interventional Radiology and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. For additional health information, please contact your health care provider.
