After having a bone biopsy
Bone biopsy in the interventional radiology department
A bone biopsy is a procedure done under X-ray or CT guidance. We remove a small sample of bone using a needle and send the sample to be tested in a laboratory.
What happens after the procedure
You typically need to stay in hospital for 4 hours after a bone biopsy. We can then monitor you closely. An IR nurse explains when you can eat and drink after your procedure.
If all your checks are fine, you can usually go home on the same day.
When you go home
Here is some guidance to help you when you go home after having a bone biopsy:
Do
- ask a responsible adult to take you home by car or taxi and stay with you overnight while you recover
- call 020 7188 2888 (Monday to Friday, 7.45am to 7pm) if you need to arrange hospital transport to take you home
- take simple painkillers like paracetamol if you feel any discomfort and follow the instructions on the packet
- avoid any exercise that involves a lot of effort or energy, and heavy lifting, for 48 hours after the procedure
Don't
- do not use public transport to travel home in case you feel unwell
- do not drive for 24 hours after the procedure and not until you feel safe to drive again
Getting your results
The doctor who referred you for the bone biopsy arranges a follow-up appointment. At this appointment, they explain the biopsy results.
It usually takes at least 1 week to get the biopsy results from the laboratory.
Resource number: 0245/VER5
Last reviewed: April 2024
Next review due: April 2027
A list of sources is available on request.
