Biopsy - biliary tract

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Gallbladder endoscopy

The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following:

• Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• School age test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

If the biopsy is taken through a needle, there will be a slight stinging sensation when a local anesthetic (skin numbing medicine) is injected. Even after the anesthetic takes effect, there may be a cramping or pinching sensation during the procedure.

If the specimen is taken during an ERCP, you will receive a spray to help numb your throat. You also receive intravenous sedation and pain medications. As a result, there is generally minimal discomfort during the procedure.

A biopsy is necessary to distinguish between primary tumors and those that have metastasized (spread) from another location, and to determine if a growth is malignant.

A biopsy may also be taken:

• To test for diseases or infection
• After an X-ray, MRI, CT, or ultrasound has revealed abnormal growths

Review Date: 01/22/2007
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.