Percutaneous Needle Biopsy (CT or US-Guided)

During your percutaneous needle biopsy, your interventional radiologist will insert a needle through your skin to collect a sample of tissue using CT (cat scan) and/or US (ultrasound) to guide him. Your interventional radiologist will review your scans in order to determine the best path for obtaining a sample of your tissue. The procedure usually takes less than 1 hour.

Before your procedure
Before the procedure, you will have an IV line placed in your arm. You may get medication through your IV that will make you feel drowsy. The medication will control pain and anxiety.

During your procedure
We will take a CT scan or ultrasound in the area of concern. The interventional radiologist will then draw a mark on your skin with a washable marker.

The area where the needle will go will be cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic (lidocaine/novocaine).  There are generally no incisions larger than the needle hole.

Once tissue samples have been collected, a pathologist will look at slides made from the tissue. If the slides show that there is enough tissue, then the procedure is over and the interventional radiologist will remove the needle and place skin glue (Dermabond®) or a bandage over the area. Otherwise, we may take 1 or 2 additional samples prior to removing the needle.

After your procedure
You will stay in our recovery area for between 30 minutes and 3 hours to make sure you are fully awake and feeling well following the procedure.

You may have some discomfort at your needle site. This should get better in 24 to 48 hours. You can take over-the-counter pain medication if you need it. Most people don’t need any pain medication.

Caring for your biopsy site
Do not get the area wet for 24 hours. After 24 hours, you can shower, but should still avoid getting the site wet.  You should not take a bath or swim for at least 1 week.

For 5 days after your biopsy, don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds and do not engage in any rigorous exercise.  You may do usual light activities after 24 hours.

Don’t pick or scratch the Dermabond. It will come off on its own.

Call Your Interventional Radiologist if You:

• Have new or increased pain at the site

• Have swelling or a growing bruise at the site

• Have pus or fluid coming from your incision(s)

• Notice your incision(s) are hot, tender, red, or irritated

• A fever of 100.4° F (38° C) or higher

• Chills