Biopsies

The biopsies done at Sugar Mill Diagnostic Imaging are performed by the radiologist. A needle biopsy is a sample of tissue or fluid. This procedure is referred to as a fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Another kind of biopsy performed at SMDI is a core biopsy. A piece of tissue is obtained and both types of biopsies are typically done under the guidance of ultrasound or CT with fluoroscopy. A biopsy may involve sampling of tissue or fluid. Biopsies are typically done under imaging guidance using ultrasound, CT sanning, fluoroscopy or mammography.

Biopsy Prep

Preparation can vary for each patient and their specific exam. Below is a brief overview, however, please be certain of the required preparation when scheduling the exam.

All Biopsy procedures require a written prescription or referral stating the exam being ordered and the patient’s signs and symptoms indicating medical necessity of the procedure.

All patients must be have a PT and PTT (bleeding profile) within 48 hours of the biopsy.

If the patient takes blood thinners or aspirin, it must be discontinued at least 24 hours before the biopsy procedure.

After the completion of the biopsy, most patients stay at the facility anywhere from thirty minutes to two hours depending on the kind of procedure performed.

The biopsy specimen is evaluated by a pathologist. One of two labs is used depending on the patient’s insurance. It usually takes 3 or 4 days to obtain the pathology report. The report is then sent to both the referring physician and the radiologist. The pathologist bills separately. Patient’s medical insurance information is provided to the lab by Sugar Mill Diagnostic Imaging for completeness sake and accuracy.

To schedule an appointment or discuss your imaging needs, contact Sugar Mill Diagnostic Imaging today or call us @ 352-628-9900.