Duration | Brain biopsy

Duration

The duration of a brain biopsy is usually determined by how many biopsies have to be taken and how easily the affected areas can be reached. If the biopsy is performed under general anesthesia, the duration of the anesthesia induction and ejection must also be added. Due to the good technical preparation using computer models from three-dimensional images, brain biopsies can be performed in ever shorter time. The removal of the tissue sample itself often only takes a few minutes. Including disinfection and drilling of the holes in the skull, the procedure usually takes only a few hours.

How long will I be in hospital?

Since many brain biopsies are performed under general anesthesia, one should stay in the clinic for at least one day after the biopsy for monitoring. In this way, possible damage to brain structures can be monitored simultaneously. The subsequent length of stay in the clinic is usually no longer determined by the biopsy, but by the resulting therapeutic decisions.Thus, especially if malignant changes in the brain are suspected, an immediate therapy may be necessary, which may take several days or weeks.

What are the alternatives?

The alternatives to a brain biopsy are generally limited, as biopsies are only chosen in special situations. Many images of the brain have usually been taken beforehand to help narrow down the diagnosis. Some processes can be carried out instead of a brain biopsy by means of a cerebrospinal fluid puncture, i.e. an examination of the cerebrospinal fluid. Often, however, a biopsy is indispensable for a precise diagnosis.