Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy Procedure
Guidelines & FAQs for the Ordering Clinician
Scheduling the Procedure
Who can I contact to schedule the bone marrow procedure?
Please contact Tyler Landry, Executive Assistant at The Pathology Laboratory at (337) 312-1270.
Anesthesia Selection
What kind of anesthesia is used for the patient during the procedure?
The first consideration is the management of anesthesia. You have three (3) choices:
- Perform the procedure in OR under general anesthesia (most expensive option).
- Perform the procedure under conscious sedation* using an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist.
- Perform the procedure using standard local anesthesia such as Lidocaine (least expensive option).
*NOTICE: This requires oversight by someone certified in ACLS, which none of the pathologists have; therefore, use of this option requires a qualified MD on site during the procedure. It is the ordering clinician's responsibility to secure this coverage. Conscious sedation cannot be used without fulfilling this requirement.
Location of the Procedure
Where can I schedule the procedure location? Your options include, but are not limited to:
- Hospital OR/ procedure room
- In-patient bedside
- Recovery room
- Surgicare-2100 Lake St, Lake Charles, LA 70601
- The Pathology Laboratory-830 W Bayou Pines Dr, Lake Charles, LA 70601
NOTICE: The location is determined in conjunction with the clinician's preference and anesthesia selection, patient's insurance coverage and preference, and the pathologist's schedule.
Reason for Procedure and Other Necessary Information
Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have before, during, and after the procedure; therefore, we may ask for some necessary information such as the patient history & physical, blood work results, diagnosis, and reason for the bone marrow procedure.
What information are you looking for as a result of this procedure?
- What clinical question(s) do you wish for us to answer?
Consent Forms
Who takes the patient consent forms?
Necessary consent forms include the Patient Consent and Material Risk. These will be obtained by the pathologist performing the procedure.
Requested Testing
What kind of tests and procedures are performed for a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy?
Routine Testing - at a minimum, all patients receive the following tests:
- CBC with differential - performed day of the procedure
- Bone marrow aspiration & biopsy - collection and testing
- Flow cytometry analysis - must be sent out same day
Optional Testing - these tests may be ordered if additional testing is desired:
- Cytogenetics
- Molecular studies
- Cultures
Turn-Around-Time (TAT) for Reporting
What kind of turnaround time can I expect for my patient's test results?
As there are multiple parts to this examination, each has its own expected TAT, so the entire completed report may take several days. Several factors may influence the actual timing of results.
| Test Component | Expected TAT |
|---|---|
| CBC with differential | 2 hours |
| Bone marrow aspirate and biopsy | 36 hours |
| Flow cytometry analysis | 36 hours |
| Cytogenetic analysis | 3-10 days |
| Molecular studies | Variable |
| Cultures | Preliminary: 24 hours; Final: usually 7 days |
Cost of Service and Responsibility for Payment
What is the cost of service and who is responsible for payment? Are there additional service fees?
The prices for the testing associated with the procedure are subject to change without notice and are also dependent on the patient's specific insurance coverage. Ultimately, the cost is solely the responsibility of the patient regardless of his/her insurance coverage. Please contact us in advance if there are specific questions regarding the cost of services and testing. NOTICE: There may also be a facility charge (regardless of anesthesia) and an anesthesia charge (if anything other than local anesthesia is used).
Procedure Preparation
What items and materials are needed to for the procedure? How much space is needed for specimen handling and processing?
If not provided at collection site, the performing pathologist and/or assistant will bring a bone marrow tray containing all necessary supplies for the procedure. Always ensure there is adequate work space at the selected location for all team members, as well as a table or countertop for specimen processing and materials. Please contact Tyler Landry, Executive Assistant, at (337) 312-1270 with any specific questions regarding necessary supplies and work space.
Site of Procedure
What is the preferred site of collection for a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy?
NOTICE: You need not specify. This is for your information only.
Virtually, all of the samples are obtained from the posterior iliac crest. In sedated patients, such as those in the ICU, the anterior iliac crest could be a consideration, especially if it is difficult to roll the patient on his/her side. We do NOT ever perform sternal aspirates. Biopsies are not possible from the sternum. Lastly, always use heparinized syringes for aspiration to avoid clotting.
Patient Site Care
What kind of care is given to the patient after the procedure is complete?
We require the patient to remain at the procedure site for 30-60 minutes after completion of the procedure. We utilize pressure on the site with a bandage by having the patient lay on the site for 30-60 minutes. Staff will monitor for bleeding, which is rarely an issue. Additional pressure and ice packs are the first line of treatment if this occurs. Once the patient is released, there should be minimal pain, requiring only OTC medications such as ibuprofen. No restriction of activities is required.
The Pathology Laboratory | 830 West Bayou Pines Dr. | (337) 436-9557