Biopsies Location Details To make an appointment
What is Involved?
After determining the correct site to perform the biopsy, the doctor will place local anaesthetic into the skin and down onto the area involved. Local anaesthetic causes a brief stinging discomfort. Following this a specially designed needle will be used to take the biopsy itself which only takes a few seconds.
You will be asked to remain resting in a bed for a period of 2 to 3 hours following the procedure. Observations, including blood pressure and pulse rate, will be made frequently to determine if any complications are occurring.
It is suggested that you avoid strenuous physical exercise for 48 hours following the procedure.
Risks of Procedure
Some complications do occur but the benefits are considered to outweigh these risks. The most common complication is some discomfort at the time of biopsy or soon afterwards. Treatment for this is usually pain medication either orally or by injection. Discomfort of this nature may be expected in about one third of patients. Significant bleeding may occur (in 1-2% of patients) and may cause abdominal pain and low blood pressure. Admission to hospital, a blood transfusion and occasionally treatment to stop the bleeding may be required. Other rare complications requiring operations may also occur but are extremely rare.