Biopsies are common, important diagnostic tool

At some point in our lives, many, maybe even most of us will have to undergo a biopsy of some kind. A biopsy is the name for the procedure where tissue is collected and then tested for cancer or other abnormalities. Many different types of cancer, disease and infections can be diagnosed through a biopsy, making it an indispensable medical tool.

However, many of us are fearful of having a biopsy. If a biopsy is ordered, not only does it mean something might be wrong, but the procedure itself may cause fear. The fear stems from the fact that biopsies are invasive, though most are minimally so. Expected recovery is based upon a number of factors including the type of biopsy, the amount of tissue removed, and the type of anesthetic used.

There are several different kinds of biopsies, and since they are used to diagnose many varied problems, the possible procedure types differ with each. Following are some examples of the most common types and a brief outline of each.

During a fine needle biopsy, a small, hollow needle is used to remove minimal amounts of tissue from the suspected area. Typically, the area is numbed with a local anesthetic first, during which you might feel a slight stinging or burning sensation. The practitioner then inserts the needle to get an adequate sampling of cellular material.

Another type of needle biopsy is a core biopsy. A local anesthetic is also given before this procedure. Then a somewhat larger hollow needle is used to collect an actual core sample of tissue. This tissue is then removed and tested in a laboratory.

Sometimes needle biopsies are performed with the assistance of an ultrasound machine. This helps confirm needle placement to ensure the exact location of the abnormality. This additional tool is especially helpful in a case where the area surrounding the site is especially sensitive or prone to injury.

An excisional biopsy involves the full removal of the abnormal tissue. This can be done under either local or full anesthesia, depending on the size of the affected area and the surgeon performing the procedure. For this method, the full portion of the abnormal tissue is removed, as well as a small portion of normal tissue surrounding the area. In the case of possible breast cancer biopsies, this procedure is often referred to as a "lumpectomy."

Bone biopsies are usually more involved procedure, as anytime the bone is exposed or jeopardized there is risk of an infection. Bone biopsies can either be performed through the skin and directly into the bone in a closed needle biopsy, or in what is called an open biopsy, which actually exposes the bone. These are generally performed if a type of bone cancer is suspected, or an infection or other disorder.

There are many different reasons a biopsy might be recommended. Diseases such as liver disease or heart disease can often be detected through a biopsy. Another common reason for a biopsy is the removal of possible or suspected skin cancer. People who have moles or other skin growths removed often have them tested to check for possible cancer, even if it's not immediately suspected.

New technology is improving the standard of care everyday and the tools used in diagnostic medicine are no exception. Procedures such as mammograms and ultrasounds are getting more and more efficient in detecting problems early. This, however, does not mean that biopsies will soon be a thing of the past. It is imperative to get an exact diagnosis through the testing of actual cells and/or tissue in order to find the best course for treatment.

Though we may have to suffer through some discomfort and pain, not to mention fear of the unknown, we should by no means avoid having a biopsy if recommended by physician. The information found in one tiny sample of our tissue might be the greatest tool we can give our physicians to help keep us healthy.