Biopsies Specialist

What are biopsies?

A biopsy is a test in which your Thirlby Clinic, PLC, physician removes a small amount of tissue from any part of your body to test it for disease. The exact amount of tissue removed depends on what type of minor procedure you’re having. 

When would I need a biopsy?

Your Thirlby Clinic, PLC, doctor may perform a biopsy if they detect abnormalities or irregularities during an exam. This can involve nearly any part of the body.

For example, if your doctor detects potential abnormalities during your women’s health exam, or if you have an abnormal Pap smear, you may need a cervical biopsy. In this type of biopsy, your doctor removes a small amount of cervical tissue using a scalpel, forceps, or curette. 

Another common type of biopsy is a skin biopsy. Your doctor can shave away a small tissue sample from a new mole or other suspicious skin growth. If you have a new lump, bump, or skin growth, your doctor can remove the entire growth during an in-office procedure. 

Your doctor then tests the removed tissue for disease. 

How do I prepare for a biopsy?

If you’re having a biopsy as part of a minor procedure at Thirlby Clinic, PLC, a team member gives you the preparation details ahead of time. For most minor procedures, like skin lesion removal, you need little-to-no preparation.

If you’re currently taking medication like blood thinners, you might have to stop taking the drug for a brief period before the biopsy, according to physician recommendations. Depending on the circumstances and type of biopsy, you might have to fast for eight hours beforehand. 

Does a biopsy hurt?

You’ll receive local numbing medication to ensure a comfortable procedure. In some biopsies, such as a cervical biopsy, you might feel some pinching and pressure, but it’s not painful. 

After a biopsy, you might have some minor residual soreness, especially if your doctor removed a significant amount of tissue. Fortunately, this fades quickly, and you can expect to go back to your routine almost immediately after the procedure. 

When will I know the biopsy results?

After your biopsy, the on-site lab processes your sample, so you’ll get much faster results than with an off-site laboratory. The lab sends the results directly to your doctor’s electronic medical record within the Munson Power Chart. 

You’ll meet with your doctor to discuss the biopsy results, at which time they can discuss treatment options if necessary. 

Call Thirlby Clinic, PLC, for on-site biopsies from highly experienced internal medicine experts. Book an appointment online or by phone today.