Biopsy Overview

How the Test is Performed

There are several different types of biopsies.

A needle (percutaneous) biopsy removes tissue using a hollow tube called a syringe. A needle is passed thru the syringe into the area of concern. The tissue is taken out using this needle. Needle biopsies are often performed using x-rays (usually CT scan ), which guide the surgeon to the appropriate area.

An open biopsy is a surgery that uses general anesthesia. This means you are asleep and pain-free during the procedure. The procedure is done in a hospital operating room. A surgeon makes a cut into the affected area, and the tissue is removed.

Closed biopsy uses a much smaller surgical cut than open biopsy. The small cut is made so that a camera-like instrument can be inserted. This instrument can be used to see the area, and helps ...