Name of the Procedure:

Biopsy, muscle, percutaneous needle
Common Name: Muscle biopsy
Technical Terms: Percutaneous needle muscle biopsy, Closed muscle biopsy

Summary

A muscle biopsy using a percutaneous needle involves taking a small sample of muscle tissue through the skin using a special needle. This procedure helps doctors diagnose and understand muscle diseases, infections, disorders, and other related conditions.

Purpose

Medical Condition Addressed: Muscle disorders, inflammatory myopathies, neuromuscular disorders, muscle infections
Goals/Outcomes: To obtain a sample of muscle tissue for microscopic examination to identify abnormalities, the presence of inflammatory cells, infection, or other issues affecting muscle function.

Indications

• Unexplained muscle weakness or pain
• Muscle atrophy (wasting)
• Elevated levels of muscle enzymes in the blood
• Suspected muscle infection or inflammation
• Abnormalities found in imaging tests (MRI, CT scan) that need further investigation
• Genetic conditions affecting the muscles

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the biopsy. Avoid certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as instructed by the physician.
• Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests, imaging studies (e.g., MRI), and a thorough physical examination are generally performed prior to the biopsy.

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies on an examination table, and the area of the muscle to be biopsied is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. A small incision or puncture is made in the skin.
4. A special hollow needle is inserted through the skin into the muscle to extract a small tissue sample.
5. Once the tissue sample is collected, the needle is removed and pressure is applied to stop any bleeding.
6. The incision is then bandaged.

Tools/Equipment: Sterile biopsy needle, local anesthetic, bandages
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or specialized diagnostic center.

Personnel

• Physician (often a neurologist or specialist in muscle disorders)
• Nurse or medical assistant

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Bruising, bleeding, soreness at the biopsy site
• Rare Risks: Infection, hematoma (large blood clot), injury to nearby tissues or nerves

Benefits

• Provides definitive information about muscle health and pathology.
• Helps guide proper treatment plans.
• Minimal recovery time with low risk of complications.
• Results typically available within a few days to weeks.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Keep the biopsy site clean and dry, follow specific care instructions from your healthcare provider.
• Recovery Time: Generally, patients can return to normal activities within a day or two. Avoid strenuous activities for about a week.
• Follow-up: Follow-up with the physician to discuss biopsy results and next steps.

Alternatives

• Electromyography (EMG)
• Blood tests for muscle enzymes and antibodies
• Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan
• Pros and Cons: While these alternatives can offer valuable information, they might not provide the detailed tissue analysis that a biopsy can.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Minor discomfort or pressure when the needle is inserted. The local anesthetic minimizes pain.
• After the Procedure: Mild soreness at the biopsy site. Pain management with over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.