CT Guided Bone/Spine Biopsy or Disc Biopsy/Aspiration

These are procedures ordered for diagnostic purposes. Using CT for image guidance, biopsy and/or aspiration needles are directed towards a lesion and a tissue sample obtained for pathologic evaluation.

Indications

These procedures are indicated when the etiology, or cause, of a lesion is unknown and needs to be established to guide treatment. Examples include:

  • Bone lesions such as infection or tumor in the sacrum or iliac bone (pelvis)
  • Tumors or infection in the vertebral bones
  • Disc infection, in order to guide antibiotic or antifungal therapy

Contrast

Generally not required, but may be indicated.

 Preparation

 Without Contrast:

 No preparation is required.

 With Contrast:

  • Only one CT contrast study should be scheduled within a 48 hour period.
  • BUN and creatinine must be done within 72 hours of the scan.
  • Nothing but clear liquid after midnight before the scan.
  • NPO four hours prior to exam (no food or drink).
Anesthesia

 Generally not required, but may be indicated depending on the patient. Anesthesia on these studies always needs to be authorized by a radiologist.