18
Patient Information
Neck Mass Biopsy –
What Should the Adult Patient Expect?
What is a biopsy? A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue from the neck mass.
is sample of tissue is looked at under the microscope by a
pathologist (a specialized doctor), to make a diagnosis. A biopsy
is a common test to check for cancer. ere are different types of
biopsies that can be done. e type of biopsy performed is based
on your history and the location of your mass.
What are the different types of biopsies?
Fine Needle
Aspiration (FNA)
An FNA is the best initial test to diagnose a neck mass. A small
needle is put into the mass and tissue is pulled out. An FNA is oen
done in your doctor's office. It is well-tolerated by most patients.
Risks include:
• Discomfort
• Bruising
• Infection
• Not getting enough tissue for a diagnosis
Core Biopsy A core biopsy is another way to diagnose a neck mass. A core
biopsy may be done instead of or aer an FNA. A core biopsy
uses a slightly larger needle and gets a larger piece of tissue. It is
well tolerated and has a low risk of complications. Risks include:
• Bleeding
• Bruising
• Discomfort
• Infection
• Not getting enough tissue for diagnosis
Open Biopsy An open biopsy is another way to diagnose a neck mass. It is
a more invasive procedure. Open biopsy is done by a surgeon
in the operating room and you will need anesthesia. An open
biopsy may remove only a portion of the mass or the whole mass.
Because open biopsies are more invasive, there is a higher risk for
complications. Risks include:
• Complications of anesthesia
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Discomfort
• Scarring
• Nerve injury (numbness; paralysis)
What should I do
to prepare for a
biopsy?
If you need an open biopsy your provider will tell you how to
prepare. For any biopsy, let your provider know if you take blood
thinners or have bleeding problems.
When should I
get my results?
Your medical provider should call you or set up a follow up
appointment within 1 week of your biopsy. If you do not get
your results aer 1 week, you should call your medical provider.
