Ultrasound Guided Tumor Biopsy In Ultrasound/Abdominal Imaging (Dr. Chen)
If you decide to take part in this clinical trial and have the tumor biopsy, this handout will help you prepare. It will also describe what to expect during and after the biopsy.
The biopsy will be set-up by your study coordinator with the Radiology Department at UW Hospital and Clinics.
Please report to Radiology (G3/3) on the 3rd floor (Atrium). The doctor will explain what will happen, answer any questions, and ask you to sign a consent form before the biopsy.
What Is a Biopsy Done by Ultrasound?
A biopsy removes a small tissue sample from the area of concern. The procedure is guided by the use of ultrasound.
Ultrasound looks at deep structures by making an image from the sound waves which reflect back from the tissues. No radiation or “x-ray” is used.
How to Prepare for the Biopsy
- You will have lab work done and an IV placed. If you have your blood work done elsewhere, bring the results with you or have them faxed to (608) 263-1094. The lab tests we require are a platelet count and INR.
- If you are taking aspirin or other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or ketorolac), stop taking them 5-7 days before your biopsy.
- If you are taking blood thinners such as Coumadin® (warfarin) or heparin, someone from Ultrasound will call your doctor and discuss when you should stop taking it, and when to restart it.
- If you have diabetes, please call your doctor to discuss how your medicine doses should change before this procedure. Test your blood sugar more often when you can’t eat, as well as before the procedure. If your blood sugar level is low (less than 70 mg/dl) or you have symptoms, eat some glucose tablets or drink 4 ounces of a clear liquid with sugar. Always recheck your blood sugar level to make sure it stays above 70. We may still be able to do the procedure unless you need to eat solid food to keep your blood sugar at a normal level. If the blood sugar ever gets too high or too low and you can’t bring it back to normal, call your local doctor or diabetes doctor.
- Please do not eat for 6 hours or drink for 2 hours before your visit. You may take your daily medicines with a sip of water.
- You must have someone drive you home. Do not drive until the next day.
During the Biopsy
Be sure to tell the doctors if you have any allergies, such as contrast dye, antibiotics, or anesthetic agents.
An IV will be used to give you fluids. Medicine for pain and anxiety is sometimes given. You can talk about this with the nurse or doctor. This medicine may affect your judgement. If it is used, do not make any important personal or business decisions until the next day.
After a review of your x-rays, the doctor, using ultrasound, will mark a site that will show the best place to insert the needle. After this, the site will be cleaned with special soap. The skin around the site will be numbed so you will have little pain. Most patients feel pressure, but not major pain.
Under ultrasound, the tissue sample is withdrawn using a special needle. One to three samples may be taken. The tissue sample is then sent to Dr. Chen’s laboratory.
After the Biopsy
- A bandage will be put on the site where the tissue sample was taken. You will remain in bed for 2-4 hours. During this time, you will be able to get up to use the bathroom if needed. Call the nurse for help if you need it. Your pulse, blood pressure and biopsy site will be checked often. After 2-4 hours, if there are no problems, you will be able to go home.
- You will not be able to eat or drink for 1 hour.
- Tell the nurse if you feel short of breath, have new pain, nausea, vomiting, or chills.
- After the local anesthetic wears off, you may feel some discomfort at the site. Your pain should not be severe. It is often described as somewhat sore. If you are having discomfort, use Tylenol® up to 3 times daily. You may talk to the doctor or nurse if you have questions about the dose. The pain should go away within the first 24 hours.
Your Care at Home
You may eat or drink what you like once you arrive home. Do not drink alcohol for the first 24 hours.
Rest and take it easy for the first 24 hours. Do not lift greater than 10 pounds. Resume your normal routine after 24 hours.
You may remove the bandage over the site the next morning.
You may shower after 24 hours.
When to Call the Doctor
Call if you have any other questions or concerns, or if
- you have more than a teaspoon of bleeding at the site.
- you feel dizzy, faint, or light-headed.
- your pain around the site gets worse rather than better 2-3 days later.
- you are not feeling well and have a fever greater than 100.4°F (38°C).
Phone Numbers
During the day (7:30am – 4:30pm) call the Ultrasound Department (608) 262-5279 or nurse (608) 261-5634.
If you live out of the area, call toll free: 1-800-323-8942. Ask for Ultrasound.
Evenings and weekends call your local doctor or report to your local emergency room.
Your doctor will discuss the results with you when they are available.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 01/16/2013
Copyright © 02/03/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6652
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