How is the bone marrow biopsy procedure done?
After the bone aspirate, another needle is inserted into the bone and the physician will wiggle or rotate the needle. This will allow a small piece of bone to be removed (biopsy) when the needle is removed. Will I have pain during the procedure? You may feel some pressure and/or pain at the site while the doctor removes the marrow (aspirate) and bone sliver (biopsy). The pain usually lasts only a short time. To help relax during the procedure, we recommend taking deep breaths. How long does the procedure take? Less than 30 minutes. What will happen after the needle is removed? A sterile pad will be held firmly over the site. Then a small dressing will be taped in place. A blood test will also be done. Contact you doctor or nurse at once if you have any of the following: • Unusual redness at the biopsy site. • Swelling at the biopsy site. • Excessive bleeding that does not stop after you apply pressure. What can I do the day after my procedure? You may remove the dressing if there has b
