Oncology

Bone Marrow Biopsy

Duration: 20–30 mins🏥 Recovery: 1–2 days

A bone marrow biopsy involves removing a small sample of bone marrow — the spongy tissue inside large bones — for laboratory examination. It is used to diagnose or monitor blood disorders and cancers such as leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and anaemia. The sample is usually taken from the posterior iliac crest (back of the hip bone). The procedure is done under local anaesthesia and takes less than 30 minutes.

🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed

  1. 1

    The patient lies on their side or stomach; the skin over the hip is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic.

  2. 2

    A thick hollow needle is inserted through the skin and into the bone.

  3. 3

    A liquid marrow aspirate is withdrawn with a syringe (bone marrow aspiration).

  4. 4

    A core biopsy needle is then used to take a solid cylinder of bone and marrow.

  5. 5

    The needle is removed; firm pressure is applied to stop bleeding.

  6. 6

    A small sterile dressing is placed over the site.

✅ Benefits of Bone Marrow Biopsy

  • Gold standard for diagnosing blood cancers and bone marrow disorders
  • Provides essential information for staging cancer and planning treatment
  • Quick procedure done under local anaesthesia — no hospital admission needed
  • Guides decisions on chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant, and targeted therapy
  • Can be repeated to monitor treatment response

📋 How to Prepare

  • Inform the haematologist of all blood-thinning medications.
  • Blood tests including clotting studies are done beforehand.
  • Mild sedation can be arranged for anxious patients.
  • Wear loose clothing on the day to allow easy access to the hip area.

⚠️ Possible Risks & Side Effects

  • Pain or tenderness at the biopsy site for a few days
  • Bruising or minor bleeding
  • Infection at the puncture site (rare)
  • Rarely, prolonged bleeding in patients with clotting disorders

Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.

💊 Post-Procedure Care

  • Rest for the remainder of the day.
  • Keep the site dry for 24 hours; a shower is permitted after that.
  • Paracetamol or prescribed painkillers are usually sufficient for discomfort.
  • Watch for signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, or fever.
  • Results are typically available within 5–7 days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is a bone marrow biopsy very painful?

Local anaesthesia numbs the skin and surface. The deep pressure from the needle can be uncomfortable, but most patients describe it as a dull ache rather than sharp pain. Sedation is available if needed.

How long do results take?

A preliminary report may be available in 48–72 hours; the full detailed report (including flow cytometry, cytogenetics) usually takes 7–14 days.

🏥 Bone Marrow Biopsy at Iswarya Hospital

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ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.

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