Lymph Node Biopsy – Best Way to Check for Cancer

If you find a lump in your breast or suspect that you may have breast cancer, one of your best options is to come to Desert West Surgery and receive a lymph node biopsy to check if your lump is cancerous.

We have a profound and committed oncological surgeon, Wydell Williams, MD and staff to handle everything from biopsies to surgery. We understand that it is a serious condition that requires the utmost care and best treatments and therapy. At Desert West Surgery, we make sure that our patients are well taken care of the moment they step into our facility.

Lymph Node Biopsy? What is it?

Lymph nodes are small little organs that are oval shaped and located in various parts of your body. These nodes are generally found close to the lungs, stomach, and intestines and, most commonly noted in the neck, armpit, and groin. Being part of your immune system, lymph nodes help your body in recognizing and fighting off infections. A lymph node may swell due to an infection in your body, appearing as a lump underneath your skin.

Enlarged or swollen lymph nodes may be found during a routine examination. They can be caused by an insect bite or minor infection that does not require medical treatment. However, your doctor may check and monitor your enlarged lymph nodes for several weeks. If they remain swollen or grow in size, a lymph node biopsy may be ordered to look for evidence of cancer, an immune disorder, chronic infection, or malignancy.

How is a Lymph Node Biopsy Done?

A lymph node biopsy can be done in several ways. After a sample is removed, it is examined under a microscope to look for breast cancer or other complications.

• Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy: In this procedure, a thin needle is gently inserted into a lymph node to remove sample cells for testing. This type of biopsy only takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

• Core Needle Biopsy: In this procedure, a needle with a hollow tip is inserted into a lymph node. Your doctor will then remove a sample of tissue that is about the size of a grain of rice. It is usually performed under local anesthesia, meaning that your breast will be numbed.  

• Surgical or Open Biopsy: In this type of biopsy, your doctor will make a small incision to remove your entire lymph node, or a part of it, under local anesthesia. You may also ask for general anesthesia if you prefer. Open biopsy takes between 30 to 45 minutes. Pain is generally mild after this procedure and the incision will take 10 to 14 days to heal.

At Desert West Surgery, we have the best team of professionals to carry out lymph node biopsy. With experience, expertise, and advanced equipment, we are able to give you world-class care.