Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy

In an ultrasound-guided biopsy, sound wave imaging is employed to help guide a needle or other surgical instrument to the precise location of a suspicious growth, group of cells or pocket of fluid so that a small sample can be retrieved for biopsy. Most ultrasound-guided biopsies are performed on an outpatient basis for the purpose of evaluating anomalies within the breasts, liver, lymph nodes, thyroid and prostate. Patients typically receive a local anesthetic and do not need to do anything to prepare for the procedure, with the exception of those who are on a blood-thinning medication. In this case, the medication may need to be discontinued for a period of time prior to the procedure.