Core Needle Biopsy (The James)

Core Needle Biopsy (The James)

 

Your doctor has decided that an area on your body needs to be looked at in more detail. A core needle biopsy is a procedure to remove a small sample of tissue from an abnormal area. This tissue is then looked at under a microscope.

 

Who will help with my biopsy?

  • A surgical oncologist will do your biopsy.
  • A pathologist will check your tissue from the biopsy.

 

How will my core needle biopsy be done?

This biopsy uses a special needle to take small tube-like samples of your tissue. Before your procedure, the surgical oncologist will numb the biopsy area with a medicine called Lidocaine. The biopsy needle is then placed in your skin and several samples of tissue are removed. The pathologist will then look at the tissue sample under the microscope.

Steri-strips (small, white tape) will hold your biopsy site closed. A compression bandage will be placed on your incision. The compression bandage needs to remain in place for 48 hours. It is important to keep your biopsy site dry for 48 hours after your procedure.

After 48 hours, your compression bandage can be removed and your biopsy site can be left open to air. Do not remove your steri-strips, they will fall off on their own in 10 to 14 days. If you have any pain at your biopsy site, you may take Tylenol (acetaminophen) as needed.

 

How is my tissue from the biopsy checked?

The tissue removed during your biopsy is sent to the pathology department to be tested. The following tests will be done:

  • Frozen section - this test is done the day of your biopsy procedure to provide an early diagnosis until the whole tissue sample can be checked in more detail.
  • Permanent staining - this test looks at your whole tissue sample. The final results will be available in about 5 to 7 days. Your doctor will discuss the results with you at your follow-up appointment.

 

When should I call the doctor?

You should call your doctor if have any questions or if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • Fever 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius) or higher
  • Pain that is not relieved by pain medicine
  • Continued bleeding from your biopsy site

 

 

© March 30, 2022. The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.

This handout is for informational purposes only. Talk with your doctor or health care team if you have any questions about your care.