Bone Marrow Biopsy

A bone marrow biopsy is a medical procedure that involves removing a small sample of bone marrow from the body for examination under a microscope. The bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside some of the bones in the body, such as the hips and thighbones, which produces blood cells.

Purpose

The purpose of a bone marrow biopsy is to:

• Diagnose and stage blood disorders, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma
• Monitor the progression of disease or response to treatment
• Check for abnormal cells in the bone marrow
• Evaluate the bone marrow's ability to produce healthy blood cells

Procedure

The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. The patient is given local anesthesia to numb the area where the biopsy will be performed, usually the hip or thighbone.
2. A needle is inserted into the bone and a small sample of bone marrow is aspirated (sucked out) using a syringe.
3. A second needle is used to obtain a core biopsy, which involves removing a small cylinder of bone tissue.
4. The samples are then sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope.

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with a bone marrow biopsy, including:

• Bleeding or bruising at the site of the biopsy
• Infection
• Pain or discomfort at the site of the biopsy
• Nerve damage (rare)

Preparation

To prepare for a bone marrow biopsy, patients should:

• Avoid taking aspirin or other blood-thinning medications for several days before the procedure
• Tell their doctor about any medications they are taking
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing to the appointment
• Plan to have someone drive them home after the procedure, as they may be given sedation or feel dizzy

After the Procedure

After a bone marrow biopsy, patients should:

• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for several days
• Apply pressure to the site of the biopsy to stop any bleeding
• Take pain medication as directed by their doctor
• Follow up with their doctor to discuss the results of the biopsy and any further treatment that may be needed

Results

The results of a bone marrow biopsy are typically available within several days to a week after the procedure. The doctor will examine the samples under a microscope and look for abnormal cells, such as cancer cells or immature blood cells. The results may indicate:

• A diagnosis of a blood disorder, such as leukemia or lymphoma
• The presence of abnormal cells in the bone marrow
• The effectiveness of treatment for a blood disorder

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a bone marrow biopsy?
A medical procedure to examine bone marrow tissue.

Why is a bone marrow biopsy performed?
To diagnose and monitor various blood disorders and diseases.

Where is the bone marrow biopsy typically taken from?
The hipbone or pelvis, but sometimes the sternum.

Is a bone marrow biopsy painful?
It can be uncomfortable and may cause some pain.

What type of anesthesia is used for a bone marrow biopsy?
Local anesthesia to numb the area.

How long does a bone marrow biopsy take?
Usually around 30-60 minutes.

Are there risks associated with a bone marrow biopsy?
Possible risks include bleeding, infection, and bruising.

What happens after a bone marrow biopsy?
The biopsy site is pressed to stop any bleeding and a bandage applied.

When are the results of a bone marrow biopsy available?
Typically within a few days to a week or more.

Can a bone marrow biopsy be done on an outpatient basis?
Often performed in a doctor's office, clinic, or hospital as an outpatient procedure.