What to Expect
If your child is drowsy, the injected anesthetic may sting a bit for a minute or
two and he or she might also feel the pressure of the biopsy needle pushing in. Some
kids feel a quick sharp cramp as the liquid bone marrow is withdrawn for the aspiration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 children into a deep sleep so
they won't feel anything.
Depending on the doctor's recommendations, your child might have to lie down for
a while after the procedure. If sedated, your child 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 (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.
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 may 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 your child is sedated, there's a slight chance of reaction to the medicine,
such as an allergic reaction, or slowed breathing. If there are any problems with
the sedation, the medical staff will treat them right away.
Helping Your Child
You can help prepare your child for a bone marrow aspiration or biopsy by explaining
that while the test might be uncomfortable, it won't take long. Explain the procedure
in simple language, and make sure your child understands where on the body the biopsy
will be done. After the procedure, follow any instructions the doctor gives you.
If You Have Questions
If you have questions about the bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, you can speak
with your nurse or doctor before the procedure.