Description:

Guided by ultrasound, a biopsy is performed by the radiologist who uses a thin needle to obtain a small sample of tissue. 

An aspiration is a similar procedure for fluid collections or cysts.

In a core biopsy a slightly bigger needle is used to obtain a larger sample of tissue.   

Patient Preparation:

You should not eat, drink, or chew gum for 6 hours prior to the biopsy, unless otherwise specified by your physician.

Examination time:

90 minutes