Bone marrow is the spongy tissue found in the center of bones. It is responsible for making red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Marrow is mainly found in flat bones such as the skull, ribs, vertebrae, shoulder blades, hip bones, breastbone, and at the end of long bones such as the femur and humerus. Bone marrow biopsies are done to test for certain disorders such as anemia, cancer and infection. The procedure entails inserting a needle into a bone until the needle reaches the marrow. Samples of marrow are then removed for observation.
Types of Biopsy Procedures
According to the Cancer Research of UK, there are two types of biopsy methods, aspiration and trephine. Aspiration involves sucking out bone marrow cells using a syringe. The doctor then observes the aspirate or fluid under a microscope for any abnormalities. Trephine involves removing a piece of bone tissue, which is observed under a microscope for abnormalities similar.
Biopsy Technique
Biopsies are normally done by a specialist such as a hematologist or oncologist. They can be performed in a clinic, office or hospital setting. Patients usually are given a mild sedative but are awake during the procedure. In some cases, general anesthetic is used to put the patient to sleep. The most common site for biopsies is the pelvis, according to the Harvard Medical School. The area is cleaned to prevent infection and a local anesthetic is given at the site of injection. A small cut is made and a needle with a handle at the end is inserted into the bone, using a twisting motion. When the needle passes through the outer bone, a syringe aspirates the bone marrow fluid. The needle is then pushed into the hard marrow in order to get a sample. The marrow sample is removed from the syringe, using a thin wire. Solid marrow is usually about 1 cm to 2 cm in length.
Post Procedure
According to MayoClinic.com, a pressure bandage is placed on the injection site to stop the bleeding. Patients whose procedures involved local anesthetics may resume normal activities within the same day. Patients whose procedures required general anesthesia may resume activities the next day. Bandages should be kept on for at least 24 hours and should be kept dry. Pain will be present for a week or more. Healthcare professionals should be contacted if bleeding does not stop, if the affected area is swollen or red, or if fever appears, indicating an infection.
