Biopsy - Prinses Máxima Centrum

A biopsy is necessary to determine which treatment can be given. A biopsy is usually the culmination of a diagnostic process that includes an X-ray examination (ultrasound, photo, CT or MRI scan). This earlier study often gives a lot of indications about the type of tumor

Different types of biopsies

There are different types of biopsies, which are usually taken by a doctor. If the tissue is easily accessible (e.g. a place on the skin, bone, or a clearly visible lymph node), a "closed" biopsy can often be chosen. The abnormal tissue is punctured and this is taken away to be examined. If the tissue is not easily accessible (e.g. lungs, abdominal organs), ultrasound, X-ray or an endoscopy are also used to determine the exact location of the tissue. It is usually necessary to make one or more cuts. With an "open" biopsy, a cut is made to assess the tissue before a biopsy is taken.

Under sedation or anesthesia

A biopsy usually takes place under sedation (intoxication) or anesthesia. This is because of the risk of pain due to the procedure itself and because your child must lie still so that the tissue can be removed from the right place.

Preparation

When planning the biopsy, you will be informed about practical matters such as having an empty stomach for the sedation or anesthetic and the performance of the biopsy. You can use this information to prepare your child for the procedure. This preparation can be supported by a pedagogical staff member in the department.

The examination

The biopsy can take place in day treatment. Sometimes the biopsy is combined with other interventions. The biopsy is usually removed by a doctor with a knife or drill bit. The examination takes about 30 minutes, depending on how difficult it is to access the location of the biopsy.

Follow-up care

During and after the procedure
The biopsy can take place in day treatment. Sometimes it is necessary to stay overnight for observation. After the biopsy, the location of the biopsy and any wounds are checked. Your child's temperature is also monitored.

The results
The results of the tissue examination are usually known within 10-14 days. Additional tissue examinations – for example into genetic abnormalities of the tumor – take a little more time (a few weeks).

Complications
Your child may experience pain after the biopsy, the doctor will inform you in advance of the amount of pain relief your child may take. There is also a small risk of inflammation or bleeding. If you experience persistent pain, fever, inflammation or loss of blood, please contact us. Depending on the problems your child experiences with the tumor, he or she will either wait for the results of the tissue test or quickly start treatment.