Image Guided Biopsy Procedure Information

What is a Biopsy?

A biopsy is a medical procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from an organ, lump, or tumour. This sample is sent to a laboratory to help doctors make an accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are generally safe and are an important tool for identifying medical conditions.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Arrival: Please come to Main Reception 45 minutes before your appointment to be admitted and shown to your room.
A staff member will take you to the Imaging Department for your procedure.
Fasting: Do not eat for 4 hours before your appointment. Small sips of water are usually allowed.
Medication: Inform X-ray staff if you take any blood-thinning medication such as:
- Warfarin
- Aspirin
- Heparin
- Any other anticoagulants

What Happens During the Procedure

You will change into a hospital gown.
A Consultant Radiologist will explain the procedure and answer any questions.
The biopsy is done under local anaesthetic—you will remain awake and will not require general anaesthesia.
You may need to lie in a position that gives the doctor the best access to the area being sampled.
The doctor will use imaging guidance (X-ray, CT, or ultrasound) to locate the area accurately.
The skin is cleaned and numbed, then a needle is used to collect the tissue sample. Multiple samples may be taken.

Procedure time: Approximately 30–60 minutes.

After the Biopsy

You will return to the ward for monitoring and asked to rest for a few hours.
You may feel mild discomfort or soreness at the biopsy site. Pain relief will be provided if needed.
You will receive instructions on wound care and any activity restrictions.

Radiation Safety

Some biopsies use X-ray or CT guidance, which involves a small amount of additional radiation.
The amount is carefully controlled, and the benefits of diagnosis outweigh the risks.
Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, or may be, tell a member of staff before the procedure.

Receiving Your Results

Scan results are reported by the Consultant Radiologist and sent to your referring doctor within 48 hours.
Biopsy results from the laboratory are usually available within 7 days.