Fine needle aspiration biopsy, without imaging guidance; each additional lesion (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy, without imaging guidance; each additional lesion (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).
Summary
In layman's terms, a Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy is a procedure where a thin, hollow needle is used to remove a small sample of tissue or fluid from a lesion or lump for microscopic examination. This additional procedure targets an extra lesion without the use of imaging tools for precise needle placement.
Purpose
Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy is used to diagnose or rule out conditions such as infections, cysts, inflammation, and cancerous growths. The goal is to obtain a tissue sample from an additional lesion for further pathological analysis to provide an accurate diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.
Indications
- Presence of a palpable lump or lesion
- Multiple lesions requiring evaluation for diagnostic clarity
- Further sampling needed after initial FNA biopsy
Preparation
- Patients may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
- Discontinue certain medications like blood thinners, as advised by the physician.
- Pre-procedure imaging tests (like ultrasound) might be done to locate lesions if not palpable.
Procedure Description
- The patient is positioned comfortably, and the skin over the lesion is cleaned.
- A thin, hollow needle attached to a syringe is inserted into the additional lesion.
- The needle draws out a small sample of cells or fluid.
- The sample is then sent to a lab for microscopic examination. Instruments used include a fine needle, syringe, and slides for sample transfer.
Duration
The procedure typically takes 10-20 minutes per lesion.
Setting
This procedure is often performed in a doctor's office, outpatient clinic, or hospital setting.
Personnel
- Performed by a cytopathologist, radiologist, or a trained medical professional.
- Assisted by a nurse or medical technician.
Risks and Complications
- Minor bleeding or bruising at the insertion site
- Mild pain or discomfort
- Rarely, infection or injury to nearby structures
- Pneumothorax in cases involving lung tissue sampling
Benefits
- Quick and minimally invasive
- Provides essential diagnostic information
- Can help in planning further treatment
- Typically, results are available within a few days
Recovery
- Keep the biopsy site clean and dry
- Rest for the remainder of the day
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for 24 hours
- Follow-up appointment may be needed for results discussion
Alternatives
- Core needle biopsy: uses a thicker needle to obtain a more substantial tissue sample
- Excisional or incisional biopsy: surgical removal of part or all of a lesion
- Watchful waiting: monitoring the lesion over time without immediate sampling
Patient Experience
- Minimal discomfort during the procedure
- Local anesthesia may be used to numb the area
- Mild soreness at the biopsy site can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication
- Most patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure
This markdown provides a comprehensive guide to the Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy without imaging guidance, for each additional lesion, detailing all aspects a patient might need to know.