The bone marrow biopsy may be done in the health care provider's office or in a hospital. The sample is usually taken from the hip bone. The skin is cleansed, and a local anesthetic is injected to numb the skin.
The biopsy needle is then inserted into the bone. The core of the needle will then be removed, and the needle is pressed forward and rotated in both directions. This forces a tiny sample of the bone marrow into the needle. The needle is then removed. Pressure is applied to the biopsy site to stop bleeding, and a bandage is applied.
An aspirate may also be performed, usually before the biopsy is taken. After the skin is anesthetized, the aspirate needle is inserted into the bone, and a syringe is used to withdraw the liquid bone marrow. If this is performed, the needle will be removed and either repositioned, or another needle may be used for the biopsy.
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