A Biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue from an abnormal area of the body using a needle inserted through the skin. These procedures can be safely guided by imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. These imaging methods are used to precisely determine the needle’s path and identify the best location for obtaining a tissue sample.
What is a Biopsy?
A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue from an abnormal area of the body using a needle inserted through the skin. These procedures can be safely guided by imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. These imaging methods are used to precisely determine the needle’s path and identify the best location for obtaining a tissue sample.

What are some of the most common uses of biopsies?
Biopsies are primarily used to diagnose cancer, but they can also be used to identify other conditions such as infections and autoimmune disorders. Biopsies can be performed on various parts of the body for different reasons.
For example, liver biopsies are used to diagnose liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, infections, and cancer. They can also be used to monitor for signs of rejection in a transplanted liver, a common indication for pediatric patients. Liver biopsies are usually performed by inserting a needle through the skin. Other methods of liver biopsy include inserting a catheter (a thin plastic tube) into the jugular vein to obtain a tissue sample or through surgery.
What should you tell your doctor before the procedure?
- Any allergies, especially to anesthesia.
- Any pre-existing medical conditions.
- If you are pregnant.
- Any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and blood thinners.
- Your insulin dosage, if applicable.
How to prepare for a biopsy
- Biopsies are usually outpatient procedures and require minimal preparation.
- You will typically be asked to fast for at least seven hours before the procedure, although you may be able to take routine medications with a sip of water.
- Your doctor may ask you to stop taking aspirin or blood thinners for a certain period before the procedure.
- You may be asked to wear a gown during the procedure.
- It is a good idea to have a friend or family member drive you home after the procedure.
The biopsy procedure
- Biopsies, especially needle biopsies, are often performed by a radiologist who specializes in interventional procedures.
- During a needle biopsy, a sample of fluid or tissue is removed using a needle.
- Needle biopsies are often guided by CT, fluoroscopy, or MRI.
- The patient typically lies on their back during the procedure. A small incision is made in the skin, and the needle is inserted into the targeted area.
- A local anesthetic is usually administered to numb the area.
- After the procedure, pressure is applied to the site to control any bleeding, and a bandage is applied.

Who interprets the results and how will the patient receive them?
After the tissue sample is collected, it is sent to a laboratory for analysis. A pathologist will examine the biopsy tissue under a microscope and within a few days will send a comprehensive report to the patient’s doctor.
The interventional radiologist may recommend a follow-up visit after the procedure or treatment to monitor for any complications. This follow-up may include a physical examination, imaging studies, and other blood tests. During this visit, the patient can discuss any changes or side effects they may have experienced after the procedure or treatment.
Benefits of Biopsy
- Needle biopsies are a reliable way to obtain tissue samples that can help determine whether a lesion is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
- A needle biopsy is less invasive than open surgical biopsies, which require a larger incision and may require local or general anesthesia.
- The procedure is usually painless and the results are as accurate as those obtained from a surgically removed tissue sample.
- Recovery time is short and patients can usually resume their normal activities soon after the procedure.
Complications of Biopsy
In any procedure that involves breaking the skin, there is a risk of infection. The chance of an infection requiring antibiotic treatment is estimated to be less than 1 in 1000 cases. After the procedure, the biopsy site may be sore for a few days. If the pain is severe, your doctor can prescribe pain medication.
Limitations of Needle Biopsy
- Insufficient Tissue: In some cases, the amount of tissue obtained from the needle biopsy may not be enough for a definitive diagnosis, requiring a repeat biopsy.
- Inability to Detect Certain Lesions: Rarely, minimally invasive biopsies may not be able to detect certain lesions or determine the extent of a disease. If after a technically successful procedure, the diagnosis remains unclear, a surgical biopsy may be necessary.

Dr. Hossein Ghanaati, a radiologist with extensive experience in medical imaging, is one of the leading physicians in this field. Utilizing his vast knowledge and experience, he provides accurate diagnostic services to patients. Dr. Ghanaati, in addition to his clinical activities, is engaged in research and teaching in the field of radiology and has published numerous articles and translations in this field.