HF 7315

Non-Sedation Ultrasound Guided Biopsy

Your doctor has scheduled a ____________ biopsy to be done on ________________.

Please report to Radiology (G3/3) on the 3rd floor at ___________. Before the biopsy, our doctors will explain what will happen, answer any questions, and ask you to sign a consent form.

What is a biopsy done by ultrasound?

A biopsy removes a small tissue sample from the area of concern. The test is guided using ultrasound. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create a detailed image. No radiation or “x-ray” is used.

How to Prepare for the Biopsy

  • You may have lab tests done on the day of the test. We may draw blood for a platelet count and INR. This will either be done at your doctor’s office or in the outpatient lab 1 hour prior to the biopsy.

  • If you are taking blood thinners such as Coumadin (warfarin), heparin, Plavix, ibuprofen, naproxen, or daily aspirin, you may be asked to stop them before the biopsy to prevent bleeding during and after.

During the Biopsy

Be sure to tell the radiologists if you have any allergies (contrast dye, antibiotics, anesthetic agents, etc.).

After a review of your x-rays, the radiologist, using ultrasound, will mark an area that will show the best place to insert the needle. The area will be cleaned with special soap. The skin around the site will be numbed so you will have little pain. Most patients feel pressure, but not major pain.

Under ultrasound, the tissue sample is taken using a needle. One to three samples may be taken. The sample is sent for exam under the microscope or to pathology for study.

After the Biopsy

  • After the local anesthetic wears off, you may feel some pain at the site. Your pain should not be severe but is often described as somewhat sore.

  • If you are having pain, use Tylenol up to 3 times daily. You may talk to the doctor or nurse if you have questions about the dose. The pain should go away within 24 hours.

  • Tell the nurse if you have new pain, nausea, vomiting, or chills.

  • A bandage will be placed over the biopsy site. You may remove it and shower after 24 hours.

  • Do not lift more than 10 pounds for 24 hours.

Your doctor will discuss the results with you when the results are ready.

When to Call

Call if you have any other questions or concerns, or if:

  • You have more than a teaspoon of bleeding at the site.

  • You feel dizzy, faint, or light-headed.

  • Your pain around the site gets worse rather than better 2-3 days later.

  • You are not feeling well and have a fever greater than 100.4 F (38 C).

Who to Call

Ultrasound Department
(608) 262-5279
Weekdays, 7:30am- 4:30 pm

Radiology Nurse
(608) 261-5634

The toll free number is:
1-800-323-8942. Ask for Ultrasound.

Evenings and weekends call your local doctor or go to your local emergency room.

Your doctor will discuss the results with you when the results are ready.