What is a Biopsy? Doctor explains procedure, purpose, results & more

In this video, I delve into the often daunting topic of biopsies, a procedure that many people may encounter but few fully understand. Have you ever been told that you might need a biopsy and found yourself wondering what exactly that means or how it works? You're not alone. Biopsies can be a source of anxiety, but they are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

So, what is a biopsy? At its core, a biopsy is a medical procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from the body to be examined under a microscope. This examination helps doctors understand what’s happening at a cellular level, which is essential for diagnosing various conditions, including cancer.

Why might someone need a biopsy? There are several reasons. A biopsy is often performed to investigate an abnormality, which can be functional—like a liver or kidney dysfunction detected through blood tests—or structural, such as a lump or swelling identified during a physical exam or imaging study. In many cases, imaging or blood tests alone cannot provide a definitive answer, making a biopsy necessary to obtain a clear diagnosis. Additionally, biopsies can be used to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing treatments, particularly in cases of cancer or chronic diseases.

Now, let’s explore the different types of biopsies available. Understanding these can help demystify the process and make it less intimidating.

1. **Needle Biopsy**: This is one of the most common types of biopsies. A thin, hollow needle is used to extract a small sample of cells or tissue, often under local anesthetic. This procedure may be guided by imaging techniques like ultrasound or CT scans to ensure accuracy. Needle biopsies are frequently performed on areas such as the breast, lymph nodes, or thyroid.

2. **Core Needle Biopsy**: Similar to a needle biopsy, this method uses a larger needle to remove a core of tissue. This provides more material for testing, which can be particularly useful when examining the architecture of a lump or lesion.

3. **Endoscopic Biopsy**: This type involves using a long, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera, known as an endoscope. The endoscope is inserted through a natural opening in the body, such as the mouth or nose, allowing the doctor to visualize and take samples from areas like the stomach, bowel, or lungs.

4. **Excisional Biopsy**: In this procedure, the surgeon removes an entire lump or abnormal area. This is typically done under local or general anesthesia, depending on the size and location of the lump.

5. **Incisional Biopsy**: Here, only a portion of a larger abnormal area is removed. This approach is useful when it’s impractical to remove the entire area.

The choice of biopsy type depends on various factors, including the location of the abnormality, the amount of tissue needed, and how accessible the area is. Your healthcare provider will discuss these options with you, including the potential benefits and risks associated with each type.

So, what can you expect during the biopsy procedure? The experience can vary significantly based on the type of biopsy being performed. Many needle biopsies are quick outpatient procedures that take only a few minutes and are done with local anesthetic, allowing you to go home the same day. In contrast, excisional biopsies may require a short hospital stay and general anesthesia. Before the procedure, you may be asked to avoid food or drink, especially if sedation is planned. Your healthcare team will provide detailed information about what to expect, including potential risks such as bleeding, infection, or discomfort. While serious complications are uncommon, it’s essential to have an open dialogue with your medical team and ask any questions you may have.

After the biopsy, the collected sample is sent to a pathology lab, where a specialist known as a pathologist examines it under a microscope. They may use special stains or tests to look for signs of inflammation, infection, or cancer. The results can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the complexity of the analysis. I understand that waiting for results can be stressful, but remember that your clinical team is there to support you and answer any questions you may have during this time.

If you found this video helpful and want to learn more about biopsies, please check out the description box of this video for more useful links. For any questions, feel free to leave them in the comment section of the video. Thank you for watching, and take care.