Word parts
What it means
A test that removes cells or tissue for study. It can be done with a needle, a scope, or a cut during surgery. It is the main way to tell whether a lump is cancer, and to diagnose many liver, kidney, skin and bone marrow conditions.
For the nurse
Before the procedure, check consent and whether the client takes anticoagulants. Afterward, watch the site for bleeding and the client's vital signs. After a liver biopsy, the client usually lies on the right side for a time to press on the site.
At a glance
| Spanish | biopsia |
|---|---|
| Also written | biopsies |
Related terms
informed consent
A person's agreement to a treatment or procedure, given freely after the risks, benefits and other choices have been explained to them.
bone marrow
The soft, spongy tissue inside bones that makes blood cells.
lesion
An area of tissue that has been damaged or has changed from normal, such as a sore, wound, lump or spot.
colonoscopy
An exam of the inside of the large intestine with a long, flexible tube that has a camera on its end.