How do they test bone marrow? And how do they remove it for donation?
A bone marrow test is conducted by taking a biopsy most often from the hip bone. Although the hip bone is most often used for the procedure, a biopsy may be taken from the sternum, or a leg bone just below the knee in babies and small children. The skin is first cleaned then an injection of something to numb pain is given. Then, a long and somewhat large aspiration needle is stuck into the bone and a small sample is taken. Adults and older teenagers may have the done under local anesthesia so that the pain of the procedure is reduced. Babies and children usually have some sedation because they tend to not be able to sit still enough and become quite anxious. Some adults may be given sedation as well to relieve anxiety. For donating bone marrow, either the same procedure may take place and a larger sample will be taken, or it may be collected through the blood. Some stem cells do leave the bone marrow and are collected through an IV in much the same way as platelet donation is collected
