Stereotactic biopsy is a medical procedure used to take samples of abnormal tissue or lesions inside the body. This procedure is particularly commonly used to examine lesions in internal organs such as the breast, kidneys, liver, lungs and brain. Stereotactic biopsy is usually performed to diagnose whether these lesions are cancerous or to diagnose another disease.
Stereotactic biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require surgery and in most cases offers a less risky option for patients. Furthermore, in cases that do not require surgical intervention, patient recovery can be faster. This procedure is an important tool in cancer diagnosis and treatment and helps doctors develop a better understanding and approach to their patients' health.
How is Stereotactic Biopsy Performed?
Stereotactic biopsy is a medical procedure used to take samples of abnormal tissue or lesions, especially in internal organs. This procedure is performed precisely under the guidance of an imaging device. Here are the steps on how to perform a stereotactic biopsy:
Imaging: Prior to the stereotactic biopsy procedure, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or other imaging techniques are used to determine the exact location of the abnormal tissue or lesion in the patient's internal organ. These images provide precise guidance to doctors.
Targeting: With the help of images, doctors determine the precise location of the abnormal tissue or lesion. Precisely determining this location is critical to avoid wrong targeting.
Needle Placement: A thin needle is inserted to be guided into the target area. The needle is precisely guided to the target indicated by the images.
Sample Collection: The needle takes a sample of the abnormal tissue or lesion. This sample is then sent for laboratory examination. This step is important to investigate whether the sample is cancerous or signs of another disease.
Finalizing the Procedure: Once the sample has been taken, the needle is removed and the procedure ends.
Results and Diagnosis: After the examination in the laboratory, the samples are evaluated. These results play an important role in determining the patient's diagnosis and treatment plan.
Stereotactic biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure and does not require surgical intervention. Therefore, it carries fewer risks for patients and usually offers a quick recovery. This procedure is used in a number of areas of medical practice, such as cancer diagnosis and treatment, medical diagnostics and examination of internal organs.
Why is a brain tumor biopsy performed?
A brain tumor biopsy is performed to examine and evaluate abnormal growths or tumors in a person's brain tissue. The reasons for this procedure may be the following:
Diagnostic Procedure: It is done to determine the cause of abnormal growths or lesions in the brain and to make a definitive diagnosis. Brain tumors can be benign (benign) or malignant (malignant) and treatment options may vary depending on the type of tumor. A biopsy is the first step to determine the nature of the tumor.
Treatment Planning: A brain tumor biopsy is important for planning appropriate treatment strategies by determining the type, size and location of the tumor. Benign tumors can sometimes be kept under observation only, while malignant tumors may need aggressive treatments such as surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.
Post-Treatment Evaluation: After brain tumor treatment, biopsy results can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment. It can be monitored whether the tumor has shrunk or how it responded to treatment.
Diagnosis of Rare Tumors: Brain tumors can be rare and a biopsy may be needed to accurately diagnose such tumors. Each tumor is unique and some may contain very rare types.
Personalization of Treatment Options: A brain tumor biopsy can be used to personalize treatment options, taking into account the patient's specific health condition and the characteristics of the tumor. Every patient is different and the treatment plan should be tailored to individual needs.
Assessing Cancer Spread: The biopsy can also be used to assess how far the cancer has spread or metastasized to sites outside the brain.
A brain tumor biopsy is an important medical procedure that ensures that patients receive an accurate diagnosis, receive the most appropriate treatment, and that treatment outcomes are monitored. Therefore, it is an important step for patients with suspected brain tumors.
After Stereotactic Biopsy
After a stereotactic biopsy, patients usually follow several steps and this process can vary depending on the type of tumor, the reason for the biopsy and the patient's health status. Common steps followed after stereotactic biopsy:
Waiting for Biopsy Results: The sample taken during the biopsy is sent for laboratory examination. This is done to determine the nature of the tumor, whether it is benign or malignant, or whether it indicates another condition. The results usually take a few days or weeks.
Consultation with the doctor: When the biopsy results come back, your doctor will usually discuss them with you. During this discussion, you can learn more about the type, size and other characteristics of the tumor. You will also be informed about treatment options and next steps.
Determining the Treatment Plan: Based on the biopsy results, your doctor will work to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Benign tumors can usually be kept under regular monitoring, while malignant tumors may require surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or other treatments.
Treatment Initiation: If treatment is required, a treatment plan will be developed with your doctor. The course of treatment may vary depending on the characteristics of the tumor and the general health of the patient.
Regular Follow-up: After treatment, your doctor may schedule regular follow-up appointments. These appointments are used to assess how the tumor is responding and the effectiveness of the treatment. Post-treatment follow-up is important to optimize the patient's health and adjust the treatment plan as needed.