CT or Ultrasound Guided Biopsy and Drainage Procedures

Please note: This is an Interventional Radiology procedure. A specially trained doctor called an Interventional Radiologist will use a CT machine or an Ultrasound to guide to a specific target. Typically, the target is a collection of fluid to be drained or an area of concern within the body that must be biopsied for further study. Generally, prior scans, ultrasounds or x-rays of affected areas will need to be viewed by the doctor before scheduling of these procedures can be completed.

Procedure

• Depending upon the area of concern, you may be required to lie on your side, your back or your stomach.
• A CT or Ultrasound is used to scan the area of concern.
• The skin over the site is cleaned. A local anesthetic is applied to numb the skin.
• The site is accessed with a straight needle. Biopsies are taken as necessary. In some cases a thin tube is exchanged with the needle to drain a collection of fluid.

Preparation & Considerations

• For thyroid core biopsies being performed in the Ultrasound department at Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, please see more information here.
• Please expect a phone call prior to your procedure informing you of specific requirements, obtaining a health history and a list of medications including blood thinners, and answering any questions that you may have.
• Blood work is required prior to most procedures.
• Please report to the Interventional Radiology Reception Desk upon arrival.
• Please ensure that you have not had anything to eat or drink after midnight the night before your procedure.
• Take your normal medications unless otherwise indicated by your physician.
• If you are diabetic, talk to your physician about your insulin dose.
• Shower or bathe the evening before or the morning of the procedure.
• Please leave jewelry and other valuables at home; we are not responsible for items that you bring into the hospital.
• Bring all medications in their labeled containers with you on the day of your procedure.
• Plan on being at the hospital for at least 4 hours.
• Plan on resting for 12 hours post procedure.
• Do not drink alcohol 48 hours before or after your procedure.
• You MUST have a responsible adult to drive you home.
• Do not operate a vehicle, heavy machinery post- procedure for the remainder of that day.
• Do not make any important decisions post-procedure for the remainder of that day.
• As a reminder, children are not allowed into the imaging room and must be supervised by another guardian while your study is being completed.