Spine Image-Guided Biopsy - About the Exam
Mountain Medical performs image-guided biopsy of the spine using CT, MRI, ultrasound, and X-ray equipment. An image-guided biopsy allows Mountain Medical radiologists to determine if lesions on the spine or other abnormalities are spinal cancer.
What you can expect during a image-guided biopsy of the spine (using CT, MRI, ultrasound or X-ray):
- This procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis.
- You will be asked to lay face-down on the examination table.
- A local anesthetic will be injected into the spine to numb it.
- Depending on whether CT, MRI, ultrasound or x-ray imaging is being used, your radiologist will locate the lesion.
- A very small nick is made in the skin at the site where the biopsy needle is to be inserted.
- The radiologist, monitoring the lesion site with the imaging technology, will insert the needle and advance it directly into the mass.
- Tissue samples are then removed.
- After this sampling, the needle will be removed.
- Once the biopsy is complete, pressure will be applied to stop any bleeding and the opening in the skin is covered with a dressing. No sutures are needed.
- This procedure is usually completed within an hour.
Learn how to prepare for a spine image guided biopsy.
Learn the benefits and risks of spine image guided biopsy.
Watch the X-ray - What to Expect Video.
