Biopsy, Bone - Bone Biopsy

In this test, a piece of bone is removed for testing in the laboratory. A bone lesion biopsy is taken when osteomyelitis, rickets, or bone cancer is suspected.

How is the test performed?

A bone lesion biopsy may be taken during surgery with the person under general anesthesia. Or, it may be taken with the person under local anesthesia. When a biopsy is taken during surgery, the surgeon cuts through the skin and removes a small sample of bone. When a biopsy is taken under local anesthesia, a hollow needle is inserted into the bone. The needle with the bone sample is removed. The bone samples are then sent to the laboratory for testing. Pressure is applied to the site until bleeding stops.