What is retroperitoneal lymph node biopsy by needle aspiration?

A retroperitoneal lymph node biopsy by needle aspiration is a procedure in which the doctor takes a sample of your retroperitoneal lymph nodes. These are the lymph nodes at the back of your abdominal and pelvic cavity.

When is it used?

The doctor may suspect that your retroperitoneal lymph nodes are not working well or may have cancer in them. Lymph nodes are oval-shaped organs found throughout the body that make lymphocytes and monocytes, which are cells in the lymph fluid. They filter the lymph fluid, keeping bacteria out of the bloodstream. They may also trap cancer cells and develop cancer themselves, called lymphoma.

An alternative would be to choose not to have treatment, recognizing the risks of your condition. You should ask your doctor about this choice.

How do I prepare for a retroperitoneal lymph node biopsy by needle aspiration?

Follow instructions provided by your doctor.

What happens during the procedure?

The doctor will inject a local anesthetic beneath the skin to keep you from feeling pain. Then the doctor will ask you to hold your breath for 15 to 20 seconds. The doctor will puncture the skin and guide a needle attached to a syringe to your lymph node. The doctor will use a CT scan to help guide the needle to the site of the lymph node. By creating suction in the needle and withdrawing the needle, the doctor will remove a small piece of the lymph node.

The doctor may repeat this procedure on as many lymph nodes as he or she thinks appropriate.

The doctor will send the samples of your lymph nodes to the lab for analysis.

What happens after the procedure?

You will need to be watched for 6 hours to make sure that there is no bleeding from the cut. Avoid all heavy activity for the rest of the day.

You should ask your doctor what other steps you should take and when you should come back for a checkup.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

This procedure will not cure the problem, but it will help the doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

• Local anesthesia may not numb the area quite enough and you may feel some minor discomfort. Also, in rare cases, you may have an allergic reaction to the drug used in this type of anesthesia.

• The needle may puncture a blood vessel, an organ, or a gland and cause leaking or bleeding.

• You may get an infection in the bloodstream.

You should ask your doctor how these risks apply to you.

When should I call the doctor?

Call the doctor immediately if:

• You develop a fever.

• You have uncontrollable pain.

• You have nausea, vomiting, or weakness.

Call the doctor during office hours if:

• You have questions about the procedure or its result.

• You want to make another appointment.