US Guided Fine Needle Aspiration (Biopsy)

This technique uses a thin needle to obtain a sample of cells from an abnormality such as a lump.  In many cases, due to close collaboration with our dedicated cytology staff, we are able to immediately provide you with information about the benign or malignant status of the cells.

Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) is safer and typically less painful for the patient than other procedures which involve an incision or take a core of tissue with a larger, cutting needle.  A diagnosis can often be made more rapidly with an FNA, generally within 24 hours, depending on what special tests must be performed on the aspirated cells.  Fine needle aspiration is less expensive than surgical biopsy.  FNA does not cause scarring which may interfere with subsequent surgery or radiologic studies.  FNA is an excellent technique for diagnosing many tumors and infectious processes.  The specimen obtained during the Fine Needle Biopsy is sent to a pathology lab for diagnostic evaluation.

Core Needle Biopsy

Patients should contact office prior to needle biopsy. Typically performed under CatScan or Ultrasound guidance and are used for diagnosing the liver or other organs.

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