Your doctor has just recommended a fine needle aspiration biopsy for you.
The doctor's office has scheduled your procedure to be performed at our laboratory,
Ketchum, Wood & Burgert Pathology Associates' Fine Needle Aspiration Clinic.
Needle aspiration has been an efficient and cost effective diagnostic
tool since the 1930's. Lumps and lesions in any area of the body that can be
felt can be sampled in this manner. Very often hospitalization and surgery can
be avoided when a satisfactory sampling by needle aspiration has been done.
What to Expect
Our Pathologists who perform these procedures have additional training in this
special area of laboratory medicine beyond being board-certified pathologists,
and are very experienced in this sample technique. It is recommended that you avoid
aspirin products the day of the needle aspiration procedure. Although there is rarely
any bleeding during or after the insertion of the needle, aspirin has a
tendency to extend any bleeding that may occur. Eating regular meals and taking
other regular medications is recommended.
Upon Arrival at Ketchum, Wood & Burgert Pathology Associates
Our receptionist will greet you and confirm your appointment. You will be directed
to the billing department to give insurance information. Upon returning to the lobby,
you will be accompanied to the procedure room.
The Aspiration Procedure
The Pathologist will review your chart and palpate the area to be sampled. You will
be asked to lie on the exam table for the procedure. The Pathologist will explain
that a very thin needle will be placed into the lesion and some cells will be drawn
out for examination under a microscope. The insertion of the needle will feel
similar to a bee sting or having your blood drawn, and an anesthetic is not needed.
The Pathologist will ask you how you are feeling during the procedure to ensure your
comfort. The pathologist will place the cellular material onto a glass slide for
immediate evaluation to verify that there is adequate material. Multiple passes are
usually necessary for adequate sampling to make a comprehensive diagnosis. It takes
only a second or two to complete each pass. Pressure will be applied to the site upon
completion to decrease the chance of bruising.
At Completion of the Procedure
When the Pathologist has adequate cellular material, a bandage will be placed over the
aspiration site. There should be no significant bleeding. You may take Tylenol
for any discomfort you may feel during the remainder of the day and evening.
You will be able to drive and continue with your daily routine and activities,
avoiding anything strenuous that day.
Result of the Test
It will take several days to complete the evaluation and reporting of your fine needle
aspiration results. The report will be sent to your doctor who ordered the
test. The doctor's office will contact you regarding the results. In order to
avoid misunderstanding and misrepresentation, Ketchum, Wood & Burgert Pathology Associates
does not generally provide test results directly to the patient.
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