Bone Biopsy

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

• Care notes
• Ambulatory
• Discharge
• Español

A bone biopsy is a procedure to take a sample of bone tissue. It may be done with a needle or during surgery. A bone biopsy may be done to test for cancer, infection, or bone disease.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Seek care immediately if:

• Blood soaks through your bandage.
• Your stitches come apart.
• Your bone breaks.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• You have a fever or chills.
• Your wound is red, swollen, or draining pus.
• You have nausea or vomiting.
• Your skin is itchy, swollen, or you have a rash.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to give your child and how often to give it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines your child uses to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your child's doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Care for your wound as directed:

Remove your bandage as directed. If you have strips of medical tape over your incision, allow them to fall off on their own. If they do not fall off within 14 days, gently peel them off. Carefully wash the wound with soap and water. Dry the area and put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty. Do not go in hot tubs or take baths for 48 hours or as directed by your healthcare provider. Check your wound every day for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus.

Self-care:

• Apply ice on your bone for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel. Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain.
• Do not exercise for at least 48 hours. Too much activity may prevent healing. Rest and do quiet activities. Ask your healthcare provider when you can drive and return to your normal activities.
• Elevate your arm or leg above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your arm or leg on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
• Drink liquids as directed. Liquid will help flush the contrast liquid out of your body. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.

Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:

Your healthcare provider will call you with the results of your biopsy. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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