Lymph Node Biopsy Treatment

It is a process to detect and treat any abnormalities in a kidney-shaped organ. This procedure is useful to examine any signs of infection, cancer and is completely or partially removed. Lymph glands are the part of the lymphatic system that is mostly found all over the body. They help to fight against infections because white blood cells protect the body by capturing harmful organisms into the nodes.

Types of Lymph Node Biopsy

Its type depends on where they are located and these are as follows:-

• Cervical biopsy is done in the neck
• Axillary biopsy is for the armpit
• Inguinal biopsy is performed in the groin

How Lymph Node Biopsy is Done?

It is a surgical process which is performed by a doctor after determining the tests which are mentioned below:-

• Types

Biopsy is a simple procedure

1. Open Biopsy –

In this process, some part of the lymph node or its whole part is removed by operating it. It takes approx 45 minutes to complete and done in the following way:-

• The procedure starts by giving anesthesia and numbing drugs to an individual.
• It proceeds with a small cut.
• Then the infected portion of the lymph node is removed.
• Now the incision site is closed by using sutures and it is covered with a bandage.

2. Sentinel Biopsy –

This test is done to check cancerous cells and the spot where they have moved or not from one part to another.  It is done in the following steps:-

• Firstly, this node is located by injecting blue-colored dye near the tumor site.
• After locating the spot, your surgeon will make a small cut on the skin to extract the node.
• Then it is sent to a pathology lab to check cancer cells.
• Negative results show that cancer may not spread and positive results indicate that it has spread.
• Lymph nodes get removed by a doctor if a patient gets a positive test.
• Cut is closed by stitching.

3. Needle Biopsy –

It takes only 15 minutes which involves the following steps:-

• You will lie on the examination table then the surgeon will give you numbing medication to the biopsy site.
• A fine needle is inserted into the lymph node to collect fluid and cells.
• After removing the needle, a bandage is put on it.

a) Before the Procedure

Some preparations are done before performing the process. You will be advised by your healthcare provider. Such as stop taking aspirin, blood thinning medicines and you should also inform about your medical history and allergies.

b) During the Procedure

It is a surgical process which is done in a hospital by a surgeon and it is done in the following ways:-

• It starts with locating the site for biopsy which is done by using mammogram, ultrasound and computed tomography.
• Very small incision is made to minimize scarring and all parts of the lymph node will be removed.
• Once the procedure is completed then the cut is closed by using absorbable stitches.

b) After the Procedure

After completing the procedure, once the doctor checks your vitals, you can go home on the same day. You may experience swelling, pain and discomfort for a few days. It will take10 to 14 days for the healing process. 

What are the Risks of Lymph Node Biopsy?

It is a safe procedure, however, it might cause the following risks:-

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Cause nerve damage
• Tenderness or pain around the site
• Swelling
• Numbness