Image Guided Biopsy (Including Thyroid Biopsy)

TOPIC SECTIONS

A biopsy is the most definitive way to determine if a lump is cancerous, as imaging studies alone cannot provide a specific diagnosis.

What an Image Guided Biopsy Is

Needle localization using imaging guidance may be done before a surgical biopsy to help the surgeon more accurately identify the abnormal tissue.

An image guided biopsy is generally performed when an abnormal mass or lump has been found in an organ (thyroid, liver, kidney, lung, etc.) or body part (bone, abdomen, pelvis, lymph nodes, etc.). A biopsy is the most definitive way to determine if the abnormal tissue is cancerous, as imaging studies alone usually cannot provide a specific diagnosis on which to decide treatment options.

During a biopsy, a small amount of tissue is removed from the abnormal area with a needle or similar instrument so a pathologist can examine the material for malignant cells. Radiologists use image guidance (ultrasound, CT, MRI, or mammography) in performing biopsies to obtain tissue from the right spot and to avoid injuring important nearby body parts.

There are several imaging guided biopsy procedures available, most of which can be performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthetic. Conscious sedation can also be used when necessary. These biopsies allow a radiologist to access hard to reach areas of the body without surgery, but with the same or even better accuracy than a surgical biopsy. Invision Sally Jobe radiologists have great success in precisely sampling any mass in the body that can be visualized with imaging technology. The specific type of biopsy chosen by your doctor will depend on the location of the lump and other circumstances.

RIA radiologists perform this minimally-invasive procedure at our Invision Sally Jobe at The Centrum DTC location in Greenwood Village, Colorado and at several Denver area hospitals.

Types of Image Guided Biopsies

Following are the image guided biopsies performed by Radiology Imaging Associates radiologists:

Biopsy Type Description
Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy
  • Commonly used on the thyroid gland
  • Ultrasound guided for accurate placement of the needle
  • Uses a tiny needle, smaller than the needle used to draw blood
Needle Core Biopsy
  • Used to remove tissue from many organs and body structures
  • Ultrasound or CT guided for accurate placement of the needle
  • Uses a larger needle than a fine needle aspiration biopsy


Why It's Done & the Risks ►
Image Guided Biopsy at Radiology Imaging Associates and Invision Sally Jobe in Denver