Biopsies
Overview
Sometimes, to understand an illness or to plan the best treatment, doctors need to look closely at cells or tissues from the body. This is called a biopsy. It may sound like a big word, but a biopsy is simply a small test where a tiny sample is taken and checked under a microscope.
Biopsies are safe, quick, and very helpful. They give doctors important answers that can’t be found any other way, and they’re done with care, comfort, and support in mind, especially for children.
Importance of Biopsies
Diagnosis
Biopsies are crucial for confirming the presence of cancer, determining the specific type of tumor, and assessing its characteristics.
Staging
The information obtained from biopsies helps in staging the cancer, which is essential for planning treatment strategies.
Treatment planning
Histological and molecular analyses from biopsies guide oncologists in selecting appropriate therapies tailored to the individual’s tumor profile.
Monitoring response
In some cases, repeat biopsies may be performed to monitor how well a tumor responds to treatment and to detect any changes in its characteristics over time.
Types of Biopsies
Types of Biopsies
- Needle biopsy is a method that uses a needle to harvest tissue or fluid from muscles, bones, or other organs. During the process, imaging techniques like CT, MRI, or ultrasound are used to see the tissue and guide the needle placement.
- Surgical biopsy: In this method, an incision is created in the skin to obtain a biopsy, which is frequently required due to the tissue’s location.
At our center, we use true cut biopsy. This technique uses a tiny needle to take a small piece of tissue and is guided by imaging such as ultrasound or CT scans.
These biopsies are performed by skilled interventional radiologists specialists who use imaging to precisely target the area, making the procedure more accurate and much less invasive. By seeing exactly where to go, we can get a high-quality sample while avoiding nearby structures, which helps make the experience safer and smoother.
To ensure our patients are completely comfortable, especially children, all biopsies are done under sedation or anesthesia. This means your child will be relaxed, asleep, or won’t feel anything during the procedure.
This approach not only minimizes pain and anxiety, but also ensures that the biopsy is done with the highest level of precision and care, giving our doctors the best possible information to guide treatment.
We're Here for You
Biopsies are an important step in helping your care team understand what’s going on and how to help. While they may sound a little scary at first, they’re safe, routine, and done with a gentle touch.
You’re not alone, we’ll be there to support you before, during, and after.
What to Expect
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Before the procedure, follow the fasting guidelines provided by your healthcare team and ensure your child understands the process in simple, reassuring terms to ease anxiety. You’ll be asked to sign an informed consent form detailing the procedure’s risks and benefits, while also disclosing any medications, allergies, or history of bleeding disorders.
Duration
The procedure typically takes about 30-60 minutes.
After the Procedure
- You may feel a bit sore at the site for a day or two, like a bruise. This is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
- The sample is sent to a lab, and results usually come back in a few days.
- After the biopsy, keep an eye on the site for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or unusual discharge.
- Limitation of physical activity may be needed for a short period following the procedure, follow your doctor advice.
Complications
- Infection
- Pain or discomfort at the biopsy site is common but usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Some bruising or prolonged bleeding can occur