•  
  •  

Bone Biopsy

A bone biopsy is a test in which a small sample of bone is removed from the body and looked at under a microscope for cancer, infection, or other bone problems. A bone biopsy can be taken from any bone in the body.

The bone may be removed through a needle put through the skin into the bone or through a small cut in the skin. A numbing medicine (local anesthetic) is used to prevent pain during a biopsy.

Last Revised: October 21, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Joseph O'Donnell, MD - Hematology, Oncology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.