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bone marrow biopsy

Alternative Names
bone marrow aspiration

Definition
A bone marrow biopsy removes a sample of bone marrow cells from the bone.

Who is a candidate for the procedure?
A person may undergo a bone marrow biopsy in order to:
  • diagnose different types of leukaemia when a blood test shows suspicious cell changes.
  • follow the response to a leukaemia treatment.
  • help in diagnosis and treatment of certain other cancers or other non-cancerous, blood disorders.
How is the procedure performed?
First, the skin over the rear of the pelvic bone is cleansed and local anaesthesia is used to numb the area. Sometimes a drug is given intravenously to help calm the person having the procedure. A hollow stainless steel needle is inserted into the back part of the pelvic bone. Once it is inside the bone, a sample of the white to reddish liquid marrow is drawn into the syringe.

Sometimes a larger hollow needle is used to obtain a solid core specimen of marrow from the same area. No incision or stitches are needed. The sample taken is checked under a microscope for abnormal cells.

What happens right after the procedure?
  • The wound in the bone closes by itself. Usually there is very little scarring.
  • A bandage is left on for 24 hours, then removed. After that, no special care is needed.
  • The person may experience some pain in the area for several days. Mild pain relievers should be enough to treat this.
What are the potential complications after the procedure?
Occasionally, a person experiences:
  • noticeable pain.
  • infection.
  • slow bleeding at the site.
A reaction to the anaesthesia used is possible, too.

Author:
Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel
Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia
Last Updated: 1/10/2001
Contributors
Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request


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