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Some drainage and biopsy (removal of tissue from the body to establish a diagnosis) procedures require imaging guidance to be performed accurately and safely. When an abnormality can be viewed well with CT or ultrasound imaging, it is often desirable to perform the procedure with the appropriate imaging technology. This permits visual confirmation of the needle or medical device to the desired location.
Depending on the nature of the procedure being performed, local anesthetic with or without conscious sedation will be given. The type of anesthesia will be discussed in advance with the patient. At the start of the exam, an initial CT or ultrasound image or series of images will be obtained so that the radiologist can plan the procedure's approach. The exam will then proceed in a step-by-step fashion with the radiologist advancing the needle or medical device into the area to be biopsied while intermittently obtaining additional CT or ultrasound images. It is not unusual for the radiologist to check the area several times with additional CT or ultrasound images in order to ensure the accuracy and safety of the procedure.
