Ultrasound-guided biopsy is a medical procedure that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of internal structures in the body. It involves guiding a needle to a suspicious area, such as a lump, using ultrasound imaging to accurately target the tissue for extraction. Biopsy refers to the removal of this suspicious area from the body for further laboratory analysis. 

What are the advantages of Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy over Traditional Biopsy

1.Minimal Incision and Less Scarring:

One of the primary advantages of ultrasound-guided biopsy is that it requires only a small incision to access the target tissue. Compared to traditional surgical biopsies that necessitate larger incisions, the minimal invasiveness of ultrasound-guided biopsy results in fewer scars and reduced post-procedure bruising. For areas close to the skin, Ultrasound-assisted biopsy proves advantageous.

2.Avoidance of Ionizing Radiation:

Ultrasound-guided biopsy relies solely on high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of internal structures. As a result, there is no exposure to ionizing radiation during the procedure, making it a safer option for patients and healthcare professionals, reducing the potential risks associated with radiation exposure.

3. Safety for Pregnant Women:

Due to the absence of ionizing radiation, ultrasound-guided biopsy is considered safe for pregnant women and the developing fetus. 

When to Opt for Ultrasound Guided Biopsy

An Ultrasound-guided biopsy is a highly effective and safe choice for diagnosing lumps or abnormalities in the breast, liver, thyroid, and other soft tissues.

What you should keep in mind before getting a biopsy 

Before a biopsy, inform your doctor if you:

1. Use blood thinners like warfarin or heparin, as they may need to be stopped a few days before the procedure to reduce bleeding risk.
2. Take anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can increase the chance of bleeding.
3. Have allergies to medicines, especially anesthesia.
4. Are pregnant, as certain biopsy techniques may not be suitable during pregnancy.
5. Drink or smoke cigarettes, as these lifestyle factors can impact the healing process and may be relevant for the procedure.

What is the Procedure for Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy 

The ultrasound-guided biopsy procedure involves the following steps:

1. Patient Positioning: The patient lies on their back on an ultrasound table. specific positioning is required to obtain the sample. For instance, if the breast is to be examined, the patient may be asked to raise their hand to expose the region of interest.
2. Ultrasound Imaging: The medical professional uses the ultrasound probe to locate the target area or lesion. The image obtained helps guide the precise placement of the biopsy needle.
3. Marking the Target: the suspicious area is marked on the patient's skin to ensure accurate needle placement during the biopsy.
4. Administration of Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is given to numb the biopsy site, ensuring minimal discomfort during the procedure.
5. Biopsy Needle Placement: Different tools can be used, depending on the type of biopsy.A wider needle for a core needle biopsy, and a fine needle for fine needle aspiration.
6. Pressure and Dressing: After the biopsy is complete, slight pressure is applied to the biopsy site to prevent bleeding. A dressing is then applied to protect the site as it heals.

Types of Biopsies that use Ultrasound Guidance

1. Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): Fine needle aspiration is a type of biopsy in which a fine-gauge needle is used to extract fluid or cells from a suspicious area. 
2. Core Needle Biopsy (CN): In Ultrasound guided core needle biopsy, a larger needle is used to obtain a core tissue sample. This method is frequently used for breast, liver, and prostate biopsies.
3. Vacuum-Assisted Biopsy (VAD): VAD is a minimally invasive technique that uses a vacuum system to collect multiple tissue samples with a single needle insertion. It is particularly useful in breast biopsies.

Who Performs Ultrasound-Guided Biopsies

Ultrasound-guided biopsies are typically performed by a specialized medical professional known as an interventional radiologist. These experts are trained in diagnostic imaging and image-guided procedures, making them highly skilled in performing safe and accurate biopsies.

What are the risk in Ultrasound-guided biopsy 

Ultrasound-guided biopsies are generally considered safe and associated with minimal risks. However, as with any medical procedure, there is a potential for complications, such as bleeding, infection, or injury to nearby structures. The risk of complications varies depending on the area being biopsied; for example, the liver, being highly vascular, risk of bleeding.

What is the cost of an Ultrasound-guided biopsy

Ultrasound-guided biopsy along with diagnosis can cost between 15000 to 20,000

Affordable Ultrasound Guided Biopsy at Cion Clinics can cost between 9000 - 15,000. If you want to know more about our services, call us at 1800 120 2676 or fill out a form at the following link