What is a brain biopsy?
The purpose of a brain biopsy is to diagnose an abnormality seen on an MRI or CT scan by taking a sample of cells from the suspicious area. There are generally two kinds of biopsies: open biopsies and stereotactic needle biopsies.
In an open biopsy, an incision is made in the skull and a small piece of tissue near the surface of the brain is removed. The tissue is sent to a pathologist, who examines it under a microscope and determines the type of disease.
In a needle biopsy, a needle is used to access tumors or lesions that are deeper in the brain. During this procedure, a stereotactic frame is used to guide the needle into the brain and into the abnormal lesion or tumor. Stereotactic guidance is like the GPS system used in your car. It is a navigation system based on your preoperative imaging scans.
What should I expect after the procedure?
After surgery you will be taken to the recovery room, where vital signs are monitored as you awaken from anesthesia. Once you are fully awake, you will be transferred to the a neuroscience Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for close observation and monitoring.
A nurse will check your pupils with a flashlight and ask questions, such as, “What is your name?” You will be frequently asked to move your arms, fingers, toes, and legs. You may experience nausea and headache after surgery. Symptoms following a biopsy are usually milk and well controlled with medication. After surgery, you may be given steroid medication to control brain swelling and anticonvulsant medication to prevent seizures. The medications will be gradually stopped as directed by your surgeon. In most cases, you will remain in the hospital overnight and discharge the next day.
You will receive discharge instructions regarding activity level, wound care, medications, and follow-up appointments. Most patients can return to normal activity not long after the biopsy. At your postoperative visit, final pathology results and treatment options will be discussed. Any stitches or staples will be removed.
What are the risks of a biopsy?
No surgery is without risk, but biopsies are less invasive than open craniotomy surgeries for tumor removal. They also have fewer complications. Possible risks of a biopsy include bleeding, brain swelling, seizures, stroke, infection, blood clots, and reactions to anesthesia.