Hello Doctor,
’ve been advised to get a biopsy, and my doctor mentioned that it would be done using either a CT or ultrasound for guidance. I’m a bit nervous and would like to understand more about why this type of biopsy is needed. What are the most common reasons doctors perform a percutaneous biopsy under image guidance? Also, are there any risks involved, and how do the doctors handle any complications that might happen during or after the procedure?
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
1. A percutaneous biopsy under image guidance, such as CT or ultrasound, is a minimally invasive procedure used to obtain tissue samples from deep or hard-to-reach areas in the body. This technique is commonly performed for diagnosing tumors, infections, or unexplained masses in organs like the liver, lungs, kidneys, or lymph nodes.
2. Interventional radiologists use real-time imaging to precisely guide the biopsy needle to the target area, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. While the procedure is generally safe, potential complications include bleeding, infection, or, in the case of lung biopsies, pneumothorax (collapsed lung). To reduce risks, patients are carefully evaluated before the procedure, and real-time monitoring ensures accurate needle placement. If complications arise, they are managed promptly—small bleeds may stop on their own, but significant bleeding might require additional interventions. For lung biopsies, if a pneumothorax develops, it is monitored closely, and in some cases, a small chest tube may be placed to help reinflate the lung.
3. Overall, image-guided biopsy is an effective and well-tolerated method for obtaining diagnostic tissue samples while keeping risks low.
Thanks
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