Ultrasound Guided Needle Biopsy

An ultrasound guided needle biopsy is a medical test to learn more about a lesion or mass. The biopsy is done using an ultrasound to find the lesion or mass and then a fine needle aspiration or a core needle biopsy is done.

When are ultrasound guided needle biopsies used?

Ultrasound guided needle biopsies are most often used to biopsy lesions in the:

• Lymph nodes.
• Breast.
• Liver.

These biopsies can be done with endoscopy or bronchoscopy when tumors are within the GI tract or the lungs. These tests are called endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS).

How do I prepare for an ultrasound guided needle biopsy?

If you are on blood thinners or take aspirin your provider may want you to stop taking them for a few days before the test. Your provider will give you instructions on how to prepare for your biopsy depending on the type you are having.

How is this test done?

Local anesthesia, such as lidocaine (numbing medication), will be used to numb the area. An ultrasound is done to find the test area and is used to guide the needle into the mass or lesion. The needle removes tissue for testing. The insertion and removal of the needle only takes a few minutes, but the whole biopsy takes about 30 minutes.

EUS and EBUS are more invasive procedures. You will likely need anesthesia to help you stay calm and not remember the procedure. Your provider will be able to give you the details about your procedure, how it will be done, and how you should prepare.

What should I expect after the test?

As the numbing medication wears off, you may have some discomfort. You may have bruising, swelling, or a small amount of bleeding at the site of the biopsy.

In some cases, a pocket of blood, or a hematoma, will collect at the site of the biopsy. This can be uncomfortable but should get better over the next few days. If you have severe pain, you should call your provider right away.

For an EUS or EBUS, you may need to have someone drive you home after you wake up from anesthesia. Your provider will be able to tell you what you should expect after the biopsy is done.

How do you get the results of your ultrasound guided needle biopsy?

The tissue sample is reviewed by a pathologist and a report is written. The report will give your provider information about all of their findings. Your provider will talk with you about your results.