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The term biopsy refers to a medical
test where cells or tissue are removed for
examination, and are subsequently studied by
microscope or analyzed chemically for diagnosis.
Biopsy can be further categorized depending on
whether an entire area is removed (excisional
biopsy), a sample is removed (incisional biopsy) or
a sample or fluid is removed via needle (needle
aspiration biopsy). A radiologist performs
minimally-invasive needle biopsy with the guidance
of imaging technology such as mammography,
ultrasound, MRI, CT or fluoroscopy.
The imaging modality used is
determined by the area being sampled; for example,
mammogram guides breast biopsy while CT guides lung
biopsy and so forth.
During the procedure,
the radiologist inserts a small needle, guided by
the appropriate imaging technique, into the abnormal
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A
sample of tissue is removed and given to a
pathologist who determines what the abnormality is -
for example, cancer, a noncancerous tumor,
infection, or scar.
The
development and use of needle biopsy has largely
eliminated the need for surgery and minimized the
risks and recovery time involved, although for some
biopsies surgery may still be required, and would be
performed by a surgeon.
Some preparation may be needed for this procedure-
you will be given specific instructions at the time
of scheduling.
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