Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy?
A bone marrow aspiration is a procedure that extracts a sample of bone marrow's liquid portion. In bone marrow biopsy, a small, solid portion of bone marrow is removed.
2. What are the symptoms of bone marrow disease?
Fatigue, pale skin, frequent or prolonged infections, easy bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums, and prolonged bleeding from cuts or wounds are symptoms of bone marrow disease.
3. What are the cancers detected by bone marrow biopsy?
Bone marrow biopsy helps to find out blood cancers including leukaemia, lymphoma or multiple myeloma, stem cell disorders and fever with an unknown origin.
4. Do they sedate for bone marrow biopsy?
You will always receive a local anaesthetic before a bone marrow biopsy. Local anaesthesia is given by injection at the site of the biopsy to be performed. The local anaesthesia will numb the biopsy site and make the bone marrow biopsy less painful. You can also request sedation during the procedure.
5. How long does a bone marrow aspiration take?
The test usually takes about 30 minutes.
6. What is the most preferred site for bone marrow aspiration and biopsy ?
The posterior iliac crest is the preferred site for bone marrow aspiration and biopsy in adults.
7. How painful is bone marrow aspiration and biopsy?
The biopsy needle may cause a brief, dull ache. Because the inside of the bone cannot be numbed, this test may be of little discomfort. If you have a bone marrow aspiration, you may experience a brief, sharp pain as the bone marrow liquid is removed.
8. Who performs bone marrow biopsy?
A haematologist or oncologist will typically perform a bone marrow biopsy in the hospital. The exam may usually take about 10 minutes, and the entire procedure takes about 30 minutes.
9. How long does it take to get results from a bone biopsy?
The scan will be reviewed by a specialist doctor, and you will receive the results within 1 to 2 weeks.
10. Can I walk after a bone marrow biopsy?
The biopsy site may be sore for several days. You may have a bruise at the site of biopsy. Walking, taking pain medication, and applying ice packs to the affected area can be beneficial. The day after the procedure, you should be able to return to work and perform your normal activities.
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