Name of the Procedure:

Biopsy, abdominal or retroperitoneal mass, percutaneous needle

Summary

This minimally invasive procedure involves using a needle to take a small sample of tissue from an abnormal mass in the abdominal or retroperitoneal area. The tissue sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to help diagnose the mass.

Purpose

The procedure is used to diagnose the nature of an abdominal or retroperitoneal mass, determining if it is benign or malignant. This aids in deciding the most appropriate treatment plan.

Indications

• Unexplained mass detected through imaging tests such as CT, MRI, or ultrasound.
• Symptoms such as pain, weight loss, or other abnormalities pointing to a potential mass in the abdominal or retroperitoneal region.
• Need for confirmation of diagnosis before starting treatment.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Blood tests and imaging studies may be required to plan the biopsy.
• Medication adjustments might be necessary, particularly if the patient is on blood thinners.
• Patient should inform the doctor of any allergies or medical conditions.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned appropriately, often lying on their back or side.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the targeted area.
3. Using imaging guidance (such as ultrasound or CT), a thin, hollow needle is inserted through the skin to reach the mass.
4. A small tissue sample is collected via the needle.
5. The needle is carefully withdrawn, and pressure is applied to the site to stop any bleeding.
6. The sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

The biopsy is usually performed in a hospital radiology department or an outpatient diagnostic center.

Personnel

• Radiologist or interventional radiologist to perform the biopsy
• Nurse to assist and monitor the patient
• Lab technician to process the biopsy sample

Risks and Complications

• Slight risk of bleeding or infection at the puncture site
• Rarely, injury to nearby organs or structures
• Pneumonia or peritonitis in extreme cases
• Risk management includes careful monitoring and prompt treatment of any complications

Benefits

• Provides a definitive diagnosis, helping in the planning of the most effective treatment.
• Minimally invasive with a relatively quick recovery time.
• Reduces the need for more invasive surgical procedures.

Recovery

• Patients are typically observed for a few hours after the procedure for any signs of complications.
• Instructions may include rest for the remainder of the day and avoiding strenuous activities for 24-48 hours.
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary to discuss biopsy results and further treatment plans.

Alternatives

• Surgical biopsy, which is more invasive and requires a longer recovery.
• Imaging alone, though it may not provide a definitive diagnosis.
• Watching and waiting, which delays diagnosis and treatment.

Patient Experience

• The patient might feel slight pressure or discomfort when the needle is inserted but typically no pain due to local anesthesia.
• Post-procedure: mild soreness at the biopsy site, manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Comfort measures include positioning and using cold packs to reduce swelling or discomfort after the biopsy.