Ultrasound Guided Biopsy

What is an Ultrasound/CT-Guided Biopsy?

If an area is identified as abnormal on an x-ray, ultrasound or CT examination it may be necessary for the Radiologist to perform a biopsy (small tissue sample). Ultrasound is used to guide a needle to the area of concern. The sample will be tested by the laboratory to provide a diagnosis - normal or abnormal. Biopsies can be taken from many areas in the body i.e. breast, liver, kidneys and thyroid.

Preparing for the examination

Your Doctor/Specialist will refer you for this test.

If you are having a liver or renal biopsy the Radiologist may ask you to have some blood tests a few days before the study, and may suggest you take a light sedative prior to the examination. When you make your appointment, the receptionist will give you details of appointment time and what to do.

If you are taking regular aspirin or a blood thinner (eg Warfarin), please let the staff at Mokoia Radiology know when you make your appointment. You may need a blood test as part of a coagulation screen. Please tell staff again on arrival.

You will be taken to the ultrasound/CT room where the Sonographer (Ultrasound technician) will discuss the procedure with you, and ask you to sign a consent form for this test. If you have any queries please don't hesitate to ask the Radiologist or the Sonographer.

You may be asked to stay in the department for several hours after the examination.

You may need to bring a friend or relative to drive you home.

What does the test involve?

Using ultrasound, the Radiologist will identify the area to be biopsied. The Radiologist will then introduce local anaesthetic before making a very small nick in the skin. While scanning the region, the Radiologist will insert the needle into the area to be biopsied. When the needle is in place, a sample will be taken and the Radiologist will remove the needle. The Radiologist usually collects between three and five samples.

After-care

For patients having a liver or renal biopsy, you will need to stay on-site for a period of observation for 4-6 hours. The Radiologist will see you before you leave and give you instructions on after care.

Who interprets the results and how do I get them?

The biopsy sample will be sent to the medical laboratory for examination by a Pathologist. A result may be sent to your Doctor/Specialist within about five days after the biopsy. When the results are available, you should have an appointment with your referring Doctor/Specialist to discuss the results.

Please contact Mokoia Radiology for an appointment on 0800 466 564.