Berger Health System - Caring for you, Caring for our Community

Click here for a printable version of this document in PDF format.

Click here for a printable version of this document in Microsoft Word format.

Ultrasound Guided Biopsy

What is an Ultrasound Guided Biopsy?

An Ultrasound Guided Biopsy is a method for taking a tissue sample from a mass or organ. Using the ultrasound ensures that the sample is taken from the correct place without the need for surgery.

How do I get ready for the test?

You will need to stop taking any blood thinners (Aspirin, Coumadin, etc.) for one week before your appointment. If you have any questions about your medication contact your physician. A technologist will contact you the day before your procedure to give you instructions for your test. You may be asked to arrive early for your procedure. Be sure to have a photo ID and your insurance information with you. If your physician gave you a written order please bring that with you as well.

During the test

You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for the procedure. The skin over the biopsy site is cleaned and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the skin. Using the ultrasound images as a guide, the radiologist places the biopsy needle through the skin and guides it to the area to be biopsied. Once the sample is taken the needle is removed and the sample obtained is sent to the laboratory for examination undr a microscope.

After the test

After the test you will be able to go home within a few hours. Be sure to care for the insertion site as directed. The results from the laboratory examination of the sample will be sent to your physician.

Questions or Concerns

If you have any other questions or concerns you may call the Berger Health System Radiology department at (740) 420-8248. You will be put in touch with a technologist who can answer your questions.