What is it?
Is the removal of a tissue or bone sample to help a radiologist make a diagnosis. This is a diagnostic test for breast, lung and other cancers; an alternative to surgical biopsy. Usually a radiologist is able to perform the biopsy with a local anesthesia. A TV monitor or CT scan is used during the biopsy.

What to expect?

There will be some discomfort in the area of the biopsy and some over the counter pain medication can be taken as is required. The patient should not able to drive home following the biopsy, and needs to bring a family member or friend to accompany the patient home. A patient should expect to be at the hospital about three hours.

Preparation?

A patient may require sedatives during this procedure so it is normal not to eat or drink for the eight hours prior to the biopsy.