A pancreatic biopsy is an outpatient surgical procedure used to remove sections of the pancreas for pathological examination. It is typically done when pancreatic cancer is suspected, but other disorders and diseases may also require a biopsy. The procedure involves using ultrasound, CT, or X-rays to locate the mass and then inserting a needle to take a sample of pancreatic tissue. Patients are instructed not to eat or drink for eight hours before the test, and after the procedure, they can usually go home the same day.
A pancreatic biopsy is an outpatient surgical procedure in which sections of the pancreas are removed for pathological examination. In most cases, pancreatic biopsies are done when pancreatic cancer is suspected; however, there are other disorders and diseases of the pancreas that may require a biopsy. The procedure is usually a same-day surgery.
A pancreatic biopsy is typically ordered after a pancreatic mass has been discovered through an ultrasound or MRI scan. While some images can distinguish a tumor from a cyst or scar tissue, others cannot. Also, the only way to accurately determine whether a pancreatic mass is benign or malignant, or noncancerous rather than cancerous, is through a pancreatic biopsy.
The surgeon uses ultrasound, CT, or X-rays to locate the mass. Once located, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area for the needle, which is inserted through the skin and driven into the lump. The needle takes a sample of pancreatic tissue for examination. A lab determines the biopsy results and passes them on to the doctor, who shares them with the patient.
The patient is instructed not to eat or drink for eight hours before the test. Patients should discuss prescription or over-the-counter medications with their doctor before surgery to determine if they still need to be taken that morning. Once the paperwork is completed, the patient is ready for the procedure. After the patient is registered, preoperative preparation and biopsy typically take 1.5 to 2 hours.
For anxious patients, the doctor will prescribe medications to help them relax. Depending on the patient, a pancreatic biopsy procedure can cause mild to moderate discomfort without anti-anxiety medication. After the procedure, the patient’s family usually meets with the doctor for a preliminary report, and then the actual lab report arrives a few days later with the official results.
A keyhole surgery is another type of pancreatic biopsy. This procedure is completed while the patient is under general anesthesia. The surgeon guides a telescoping instrument through a cut in the patient’s abdominal area and connects the instrument to a video screen. This procedure allows the surgeon to view the pancreas and surrounding organs. It also allows the surgeon to measure the tumor.
After the biopsy, most patients go home the same day. They are told to rest as needed and return to normal daily activities within a day or two. Sometimes doctors limit lifting or strenuous activities for a few days to a week.
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