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Central Oregon Pathology Consultants operates an onsite fine needle aspiration (FNA) clinic. We offer a comfortable and quiet alternative to a hospital environment. In conjunction with your clinician, we are happy to schedule an appointment for you. Here is some basic information about FNAs.
Question: How is the biopsy performed?
Answer: Prior to the procedure, a brief history and physical examination is performed to assess the nature of the lesion. Any questions or concerns are addressed prior to the FNA.
The skin is then 'numbed' using lidocaine. The FNA is performed by sampling the lesion with a skinny needle and then placing the material on glass slides. Usually, two to three samples will be required from the lesion to provide an accurate diagnosis. Immediately following the biopsy, some of the slides are stained and reviewed to determine if enough material is present on the slides for diagnosis and if additional material is needed for ancillary tests. This immediate assessment ensures that the patient does not have to return for a 2nd procedure.
Question: Are there any restrictions prior to the procedure?
Answer: There are no restrictions; however, the procedure will be more successful if you are not taking blood thinners or aspirin on a regular basis because these medications increase the risk of a large hematoma and bruising.
Question: How long does the procedure take?
Answer: The FNA takes approximately 10-15 minutes to perform.
Question: When will I get my results?
Answer: Results are typically available within 24 hours after the biopsy. If ancillary tests are performed, the results may not be available for 48-72 hours.
Question: How reliable is this test?
Answer: In the hands of a trained cytopathologist, this test is very reliable. If there is a clearly benign diagnosis, it may prevent you from undergoing surgery. In the case of a definitively malignant (cancerous) diagnosis, it quickly establishes the need for further treatment. If the FNA is inconclusive, a repeat FNA or surgical biopsy is recommended.
Question: What complications might occur?
Answer: When performed by an experienced physician, a FNA has few complications. The most common complications are bruising or tenderness in the area for a few days following the procedure. Discomfort should be relieved by a pain reliever such as Tylenol or by placing an ice pack on the tender area for short periods following your return home. There is minimal risk of infection. |
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CENTRAL OREGON PATHOLOGY CONSULTANTS, PC
1348 NE Cushing Drive, Suite 200, Bend, Oregon 97701
PH: (541) 382-7696 | FX: (541) 389-5723
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