Biopsy

Terminology description

Removal of small piece of cancerous cells or tissues to examine tumor cells in laboratory is referred as biopsy. Biopsy is carried out to interpret and examine the tissues for disease. It is also referred as tissue sampling.

Types of biopsy

Biopsies are classified in to the following three types.

• Needle biopsy
• Open biopsy
• Closed biopsy

Needle biopsy:

In needle biopsy, cancerous tissues are removed using a hallow tube referred as syringe. This is a percutaneous biopsy. Here, surgical needles are used to remove small portion of cancer cells during the time of examination. It is mostly used in x-ray scanning and CT scanning to locate the specific area of examination. Patient feels sharp nip in the affected area. Risks that are associated with biopsy are infection and bleeding.

Open biopsy:

It includes general anesthesia during the time of surgery. This reduces patient’s sufferings and pain by making them fall asleep and senseless. Open biopsy is carried out in an operation theatre. After general anesthesia surgeon can pierce the skin and remove the infected area for examination.

Closed biopsy:

Closed biopsy includes a small cut at affected area compared to open biopsy. Similar to instruments like camera is inserted in to the cut portion. The camera helps in visualization and locating specific area of infection.

Preparation for biopsy test

If a patient is under medication, then it is the responsibility of the surgeon or health care provider to communicate to patients to stop medication before surgery. Especially medications like coumadin, nonsteroidal anti inflammation medicines and aspirin should not be consumed as it leads to bleeding during the removal of tissues. Care taker should not change his medication timing and prescription without the advice of care provider.

Interpretation of biopsy results

Biopsy helps in matching of tissues before transplanting the organ. The interpretation of unusual biopsy indicates presence of abnormal structure and cancer formation.