What to Expect
If you're drowsy, the injected anesthetic might sting a bit for a minute or two and you might also feel the pressure of the biopsy needle pushing in. Some people feel a quick sharp cramp as the liquid bone marrow is withdrawn for the aspiration or as the sample of bone marrow is removed for the biopsy. This cramp only lasts for a few seconds. In many cases, sedation is used to put patients into a deep sleep so they won't feel anything.
Depending on the doctor's recommendations, you might have to lie down for a while after the procedure. If sedated, you may need a few hours to rest and to allow the medications to wear off.
The biopsy site may feel slightly sore the day after the procedure and might have a small bruise. The bandage should be left in place for as long as instructed by the doctor.
Getting the Results
A doctor with expertise in interpreting bone marrow biopsies (also called a pathologist) will look at the biopsy sample under a microscope and then give the information to your doctor, who will review the results with you and your parents.
In an emergency, the results of a biopsy can be available quickly. Otherwise, they're usually ready in 1-2 days. Results can't be given directly to the patient or family at the time of the test.
If a bacterial infection is suspected, a culture is sent to a lab and results are usually available in 48 hours. A doctor might start antibiotic treatment while waiting for the results of the culture.
Risks
A bone marrow biopsy is considered a safe procedure with minimal risks. Complications are rare. In some instances, there may some discomfort or pain at the biopsy site for 1-2 days. In rare cases, infection or bleeding can happen.
If you're sedated, there's a slight chance of reaction to the medicine (for example, an allergic reaction), or slowed breathing due to the medications. If there are any problems with the sedation, the medical staff will treat them right away.
If You Have Questions
While the test might be uncomfortable, it won't take long. After the procedure, follow any instructions the doctor gives you.
If you have questions about the bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, speak with your doctor or nurse before the procedure.
Reviewed by: Rupal Christine Gupta, MD
Date reviewed: August 2015