Sometimes a blood test can only tell us so much, and a closer look at the bone marrow, where your blood cells are made, gives the clearer answer. I carry out bone marrow aspirate and trephine biopsies at The Blackheath Hospital, and I want you to feel as comfortable as possible.
You can have the procedure under local anaesthetic, or with intravenous sedation if you would prefer to feel more relaxed.
A bone marrow examination has two steps. The aspirate is a small sample of the liquid part of the marrow, and the trephine biopsy is a small core of bone and marrow. Both are usually taken from the back of the hip bone in the same session. Occasionally, only an aspirate is needed, and I will explain beforehand if that applies to you.
I numb the skin and the surface of the bone thoroughly before I begin, and the local anaesthetic is included as part of the procedure. You stay fully awake, and I talk you through each step so nothing comes as a surprise.
For maximum comfort, I can give you a sedative through a small cannula in your arm alongside the local anaesthetic. It helps you feel calm and drowsy, and many people remember little of the procedure afterwards.
Knowing what happens next makes a real difference. Here is how the day usually goes.
We go through your health, medicines and any questions. If you are having sedation, this includes checks to make sure it is safe for you.
You lie comfortably on your side. I numb the area, give sedation if you have chosen it, then take the aspirate and trephine samples.
A small dressing covers the site. You rest until you feel ready, and the team gives you clear aftercare advice before you go home.
The samples are examined in the laboratory. I then go through the results with you and explain what they mean and what comes next.
Results are usually talked through at a follow-up consultation.
If your question is not answered here, please get in touch with the practice and we will be happy to help.
The local anaesthetic numbs the skin and the surface of the bone, so most people feel pressure rather than sharp pain. There can be a brief, unusual pulling feeling when the aspirate is taken. If you are worried about discomfort, IV sedation helps you feel much more relaxed, and we can talk this through beforehand.
Yes. Sedation can leave you drowsy for a while afterwards, so please arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you, and do not drive yourself. The hospital team will give you specific advice at your pre-assessment. If you have the procedure under local anaesthetic only, this is not usually needed.
Usually, yes. The two samples give complementary information, so they are normally taken together in the same session. Occasionally only an aspirate is needed, and I will explain beforehand which samples I plan to take and why.
There is no right or wrong choice. Many people are comfortable with local anaesthetic alone, while others prefer sedation, especially if they feel anxious about procedures. I am happy to discuss the options with you so you can decide what feels right.
Book online through Circle Health Group, or email the practice first if you have a question or are not sure which appointment you need.
