The interior of the bone consists of marrow. Marrow contains a solid-like part, and a liquid part. Marrow is essential for many responsibilities, such as constructing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets for your blood. Marrow also houses iron, since the creation of red blood cells is dependent on the iron. Because of what bone marrow is capable of doing, marrow can provide information for doctors on what is occurring within marrow.
Test
Having a bone marrow biopsy can help your physician determine the cause of your illness. The test requires a small sample of marrow to be extracted from your bone. In some instances, a bone marrow aspiration may also be conducted with a bone marrow biopsy. A bone marrow biopsy removes the solid portion of your marrow and aspiration will remove the liquid material from your marrow.
How It's Done
According to the Mayo Clinic, when you undergo a bone marrow biopsy, a sample will usually be extracted from your hip bone. A local anesthetic will be applied to the injection site prior to the procedure. It is common for a small incision to be made in your skin to allow for an easier passageway for the needle. Trying to position the needle is complicated, and requires a twisting motion. You may feel pulling and tugging. Once the needle hits your bone, your physician will extract a core sample of your marrow with a syringe. You may feel a dull, aching pain as the marrow is being pulled into the syringe. Your physician will then look at the sample to determine if enough marrow has been taken. If not, you will undergo a second sample.
Aspiration
If your physician determines that an aspiration sample is necessary, they will perform an aspiration prior to your biopsy. A needle is inserted into your bone to extract a liquid sample of your marrow. You can expect to feel a painful pulling or stinging sensation. According to the Mayo Clinic, a first attempt may provide no sample. As with a biopsy, another try may be attempted to get a sample.
After the Procedure
Experiencing pain after the procedure is common. You will feel sore for at least a week. Your physician may provide you with pain relievers if the pain becomes intense. During your healing time, it is important to ensure that your biopsy site is healing properly. Don't bathe for up to 24 hours, and keep the site dry. While bleeding is normal, bleeding that soaks through your bandages and doesn't stop with applied pressure is not. If you develop a fever, have pain that worsens and can't be alleviated, develop swelling, or have large amounts of drainage (pus-like fluid) at the biopsy site, immediately seek medical attention.
Risks
Receiving a bone marrow biopsy usually provides no risks. However, as with any medical procedure, there is always a possible risk of complication. Heavy bleeding can develop in people who take aspirin or anticoagulant medications. There is a low risk of the needle breaking upon entering your bone. As a result, infections are capable of developing. It is also possible to develop an allergic reaction to anesthetics.
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