Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Biopsy by Fine-Needle Aspiration

What is retroperitoneal lymph node biopsy by fine-needle aspiration?

A retroperitoneal lymph node biopsy by fine-needle aspiration is a procedure in which your healthcare provider 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?

Your healthcare provider may suspect that your retroperitoneal lymph nodes may have cancer in them. Lymph nodes are oval-shaped organs found throughout the body that make cells called lymphocytes and monocytes, which are carried in the lymph fluid. The lymph nodes filter the lymph fluid, keeping bacteria and other organisms and substances out of the bloodstream. They may also trap cancer cells. However, they can also develop cancer themselves, a cancer called lymphoma.

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

Follow instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

What happens during the procedure?

Your healthcare provider will inject a local anesthetic beneath the skin to keep you from feeling pain. Then you will be asked to hold your breath for 15 to 20 seconds. Your provider will puncture the skin and guide a needle attached to a syringe to a lymph node. A CT scan will help guide the needle. By creating suction in the needle and then withdrawing the needle, your provider will remove a small piece of the lymph node. Your provider may repeat this procedure on other lymph nodes. Samples of the lymph nodes will be sent to the lab for tests.

What happens after the procedure?

You will need to be watched for up to 6 hours to make sure that there is no bleeding. Avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day.

Ask your healthcare provider what other steps you should take and when you should come back.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

This procedure will not cure the problem, but it may help your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best treatment.

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 healthcare provider how these risks apply to you.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your provider right away if:

• You develop a fever.
• You have uncontrollable pain.
• You have nausea, vomiting, or weakness.

Call during office hours if:

• You have questions about the procedure or its result.
• You want to make another appointment.