Percutaneous biopsy under CT guidance
CT-guided biopsy in Casablanca
This biopsy uses a needle to take small samples of a deep lesion (lung, bone, lymph node in the abdomen), under the control of the CT scan, which uses X-rays. The samples are analyzed by the pathology laboratory. It is chosen when the lesion cannot be reached with ultrasound, because it is hidden by the air in the lung or by bone. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, through a small puncture in the skin.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
The procedure usually takes 30 minutes to one hour.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
When is this exam needed?
- Lung nodule or mass.
- Lesion of a bone or a vertebra.
- Deep mass in the abdomen or pelvis.
- Deep lymph node to be analyzed, in the chest or abdomen.
- Lesion found on CT scan, MRI or PET scan, not visible on ultrasound.
How the exam is done
When you arrive, the radiologist reviews the images that showed the lesion, explains the procedure and obtains your written consent. Lying on your back, stomach or side depending on the target, you stay still. Planning images set the entry point, which is disinfected and then numbed.
The needle advances in small steps checked on the CT scan; for the chest, you are asked to hold your breath briefly. Once the target is reached, samples are taken, then the needle is removed and a dressing is applied. You are monitored after the procedure. Check images are often taken at the end, especially after a lung biopsy, to make sure there is no complication.
Preparation
- Tell us when you book about any anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication. Never stop it on your own: the radiologist will tell you whether it needs to be adjusted, together with the doctor who prescribed it.
- Arrange for someone to take you home.
- Bring the blood tests requested.
- If a contrast agent injection is planned, tell us about diabetes treated with metformin, kidney failure or an allergy to iodinated contrast agent.
Fasting
No fasting in general: if your procedure requires it, the team will tell you when you book.
Contrast injection
Iodinated contrast agent is sometimes injected into a vein to locate the blood vessels.
Contraindications and precautions
- Current or possible pregnancy: you must tell us (X-rays).
- Allergy to iodinated contrast agent or to the local anesthetic.
- Uncorrected bleeding disorder.
- Difficulty staying still or holding your breath.
- Skin infection at the planned entry point: the procedure may be postponed.
Documents to bring
- Doctor's prescription
- CT scan, MRI or PET scan that showed the lesion
- Recent blood clotting and kidney function tests, if requested
- List of your medications
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How is the result obtained?
A pathologist examines the samples under a microscope. The time it takes depends on the laboratory; your doctor gives you the result.
What signs should alert me?
After a chest or lung biopsy: go to the emergency department right away if you have shortness of breath, chest pain or cough up blood. For any biopsy: contact the center or your doctor in case of fever, persistent bleeding or increasing pain.
Is the X-ray dose high?
The images are limited to the useful area and repeated only if necessary: the dose remains suited to the procedure.
Will I sign a consent form?
Yes. The radiologist explains the purpose and the risks of the procedure, which vary depending on the organ, then obtains your written consent.
Can I go home alone after the biopsy?
No, arrange for someone to go with you. After the monitoring period, avoid driving and physical effort for the rest of the day.
How many samples are taken?
The number depends on the lesion and on the amount of tissue the laboratory needs; the radiologist adjusts it during the procedure.