Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy

About the Examination

An Ultrasound-guided Biopsy is an image guided procedure which uses ultrasound technology to help Specialist Radiologists perform needle biopsies.

An ultrasound, or sonogram, is a common procedure which uses sound waves to detect, diagnose, and monitor a variety of conditions. A needle biopsy involves the insertion of a special medical needle to gather tissue samples from lesions inside the body.

What is an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

During an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy, the Specialist Radiologist uses the ultrasound machine to locate and guide a specialised needle to the correct area of the body. The needle is then used to collect a tissue sample before being carefully removed from the body.

What part of the anatomy is examined during an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

Ultrasound-guided biopsies can be used to gather samples from different parts of the body. The most common ultrasound biopsy procedures are of:

Lymph nodes
Breasts
Liver
Thyroid

What Conditions can be diagnosed by an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

Ultrasound-guided biopsies are typically used by doctors to check for abnormal cells.

Why is an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy required?

An Ultrasound-guided biopsy is required when a GP or specialist identify a lesion/s that might be abnormal. The sample taken is sent to a Pathology Practice for careful assessment.

What are the Risks and Complications of an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

There are no identified risks associated with ultrasounds. Unlike CT scans and x-rays, Ultrasound does not expose the patient to radiation.

There is also a low risk of internal bleeding and infection following a biopsy.

To reduce the risk of complications during the procedure, simply inform the doctor of any allergies, existing conditions or medications which may impact the biopsy or the results.

What are the benefits of an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

Ultrasounds are simple, safe procedures which give detailed images of internal parts of the body. The use of this technology during a biopsy increases the accuracy of the procedure by ensuring that doctors locate and remove a sample of the suspicious tissue as quickly and safely as possible.

About the Equipment

What equipment are used on an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

An Ultrasound transducer
An Ultrasound machine and monitor
A biopsy needle. The procedure is performed under sterile conditions.

Preparation for an Ultrasound Guided Biopsy

Is a special diet required before an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

No Special dietary preparation is required prior to the procedure.

If you are regularly taking any blood thinning medication, you may be asked to stop for a couple of days before the procedure.

What does the Specialist Radiologist need to know before an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

Before undergoing an ultrasound biopsy you should let the doctor know if you:

Are diabetic
Suffer from any allergies
Taking any medications (especially blood thinners such as Aspirin, Warfarin, Clexane)
Recovering from surgery
Immune Suppressed

What to bring for an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

You should bring medications you take, along with any previous images your doctor may need.

What to wear for an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

You may need to change into a disposable gown, so you should try and wear something that is comfortable and easy to remove.

It is recommended to remove any jewellery around the area being investigated and keep it somewhere safe at home.

How long will the Ultrasound-guided Biopsy take?

The procedure will take between 30 to 45 minutes to complete.

Ultrasound Biopsy Procedure Description

What does an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy involve?

Ultrasound-guided biopsies are usually administered in hospitals or specialist medical centres.

The procedure itself is very simple, although the exact procedure will vary depending on what type of ultrasound biopsy performed.

What happens during an Ultrasound-guided Biopsy?

When you are ready for the procedure, you will lie down on an examination table and a local anaesthetic will be administered; not all biopsies require local anaesthetic. You will be awake for the entire procedure. A gel will be applied to the skin and a transducer passed over the area so that the Doctor can see, via a monitor, where to insert the needle.

Once the correct area has been located the needle will be carefully inserted and a tissue sample will be collected, several samples may be required. The entire process will be guided by ultrasound imaging.

Post Ultrasound Biopsy Instructions

What are the Recovery Details?

After the procedure a dressing will be applied. This should remain in place for 24-48 hours.

If the area that had the Biopsy is painful some time later a covered ice pack may be applied to the sire or analgesia (Panadol) may be taken (as per dose recommendations on packaging). Do not take Ibuprofen (Neurofen) for 3 days after the Biopsy.

Depending on the area that is biopsied, you may be advised not to do any heavy lifting for 48 hours.

Should you experience any symptoms you are concerned about we ask that you see your GP immediately.