NIHS Clinic offers advanced Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) and Biopsy services as part of our diagnostic capabilities. These procedures are critical in diagnosing various conditions, including cancers, infections, and inflammatory diseases. By obtaining tissue or cell samples, FNAC and biopsy provide crucial information that helps guide treatment decisions.

What is FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology)? FNAC is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to extract cells from a lump or mass in the body. It involves using a thin, hollow needle to withdraw a small sample of cells for examination under a microscope. FNAC is often used to evaluate lumps in the breast, thyroid, lymph nodes, and other superficial tissues.

What is a Biopsy? A biopsy is a procedure in which a small piece of tissue is removed from the body for microscopic examination. Unlike FNAC, which typically extracts only cells, a biopsy collects a larger tissue sample, allowing for a more detailed analysis. Biopsies can be performed on various organs and tissues, including the skin, liver, lungs, and kidneys.

Why are FNAC and Biopsy Performed? FNAC and biopsy are performed to diagnose and assess a wide range of conditions. The primary reasons for undergoing these procedures at NIHS Clinic include:

1. Diagnosis of Tumors and Cancer:

   • Purpose: Both FNAC and biopsy are essential for diagnosing cancers. They help determine whether a lump or mass is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

   • Who Needs It: Patients with unexplained lumps, growths, or masses in the body, particularly those with risk factors for cancer.

2. Evaluation of Infections:

   • Purpose: These procedures can help identify infections by detecting the presence of bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms in the tissue.

   • Who Needs It: Patients with persistent or unexplained infections, especially if they do not respond to standard treatments.

3. Assessment of Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases:

   • Purpose: FNAC and biopsy can diagnose conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or sarcoidosis by analyzing inflamed tissues.

   • Who Needs It: Individuals with symptoms such as chronic pain, swelling, or inflammation, where an autoimmune or inflammatory condition is suspected.

4. Monitoring Known Conditions:

   • Purpose: These procedures can monitor the progression of known diseases, such as cancer, or assess the effectiveness of treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.

   • Who Needs It: Patients undergoing treatment for cancer or chronic diseases that require regular monitoring of tissue changes.

Types of FNAC/Biopsy Procedures Offered at NIHS Clinic:

1. FNAC:

   • Purpose: Quickly evaluates lumps or masses by extracting cells for immediate analysis.

   • Uses: Commonly used for lumps in the breast, thyroid, lymph nodes, and superficial tissues.

   • Procedure: A thin, fine needle is inserted into the lump to collect cells, which are then smeared onto a slide for microscopic examination.

2. Core Needle Biopsy:

   • Purpose: Removes a small cylinder of tissue using a larger, hollow needle for more detailed analysis.

   • Uses: Often used for breast lumps, liver masses, or other internal organs.

   • Procedure: Performed under local anesthesia, a hollow needle is inserted into the area of concern to remove a core of tissue.

3. Excisional Biopsy:

   • Purpose: Removes an entire lump or a significant portion of tissue for thorough examination.

   • Uses: Used when a more extensive sample is needed to diagnose conditions like skin cancers or larger tumors.

   • Procedure: Usually performed under local or general anesthesia, the entire lump or suspicious area is surgically removed.

4. Incisional Biopsy:

   • Purpose: Removes only a portion of a larger tumor or mass for diagnostic purposes.

   • Uses: Used when removing the entire mass is not possible or necessary.

   • Procedure: Similar to an excisional biopsy but only a small section of the mass is removed.

5. Endoscopic Biopsy:

   • Purpose: Collects tissue samples from internal organs using an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light.

   • Uses: Commonly used for gastrointestinal tract tissues, lungs, or bladder.

   • Procedure: The endoscope is inserted into the body through a natural opening (like the mouth or rectum) or a small incision, and tissue samples are collected using special instruments.

Preparation for FNAC/Biopsy:

• General Preparation:

  • Medical History: Patients should provide a complete medical history, including any medications, allergies, and prior procedures.

  • Medication Guidance: Some medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be paused before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding. Follow the doctor’s instructions regarding any medications.

  • Fasting: Depending on the type of biopsy, patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure, especially if general anesthesia is required.

  • Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing, particularly if the biopsy area is accessible. You may need to change into a hospital gown for the procedure.

Procedure Details:

• Process:

  • Initial Consultation: The doctor will discuss the procedure, its purpose, and any risks involved. They will also address any questions or concerns the patient may have.

  • Anesthesia: Depending on the procedure, local anesthesia (numbing the area) or general anesthesia (putting the patient to sleep) may be administered.

  • Performing the Procedure:

    • For FNAC, a fine needle is inserted into the lump, and cells are aspirated into a syringe. The process is usually quick, taking just a few minutes.

    • For a biopsy, the procedure varies depending on the type. The doctor may use a needle, endoscope, or surgical incision to obtain the tissue sample. This process can take 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity.

  • Post-Procedure: After the sample is collected, the area may be bandaged, and the patient will be monitored for a short time to ensure there are no immediate complications.

Safety and Risks:

• Safety: FNAC and biopsy procedures are generally safe and widely used. They are minimally invasive and usually do not require extensive recovery time.

• Risks: While these procedures are safe, there are some potential risks, including:

  • Bleeding: A small amount of bleeding may occur at the biopsy site, particularly if a blood vessel is nicked during the procedure. This is usually minor and resolves on its own.

  • Infection: There is a slight risk of infection at the site where the needle or incision was made. Proper care and hygiene can minimize this risk.

  • Pain or Discomfort: Some patients may experience mild pain or discomfort at the biopsy site. This can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

  • Inconclusive Results: Occasionally, the sample obtained may not be sufficient to make a definitive diagnosis, necessitating a repeat procedure.

Post-Procedure:

• Recovery: Recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure. FNAC generally requires little to no recovery time, while more invasive biopsies may require a day or two of rest. Patients can usually return to normal activities shortly after the procedure, though they should avoid strenuous activity until cleared by the doctor.

• Results: The tissue or cell sample is sent to a pathology lab for analysis. The results are typically available within a few days to a week. The doctor will review the results with the patient and discuss the next steps, which may include further tests, treatment options, or a referral to a specialist.

Benefits:

• Accurate Diagnosis: FNAC and biopsy provide accurate and definitive diagnoses, allowing for early detection and appropriate treatment of various conditions, including cancer.

• Minimally Invasive: Both procedures are minimally invasive, with FNAC being particularly quick and less uncomfortable, reducing the need for more extensive surgeries.

• Quick Recovery: Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.

• Early Intervention: These procedures enable early intervention, improving the chances of successful treatment and better outcomes, especially in cancer diagnosis.

Advanced Technology and Expertise: At NIHS Clinic, our FNAC and biopsy services are conducted using the latest technology and techniques to ensure precise and reliable results. Our experienced pathologists and diagnostic specialists are committed to providing thorough, compassionate care, guiding patients through every step of the diagnostic process.

For accurate diagnosis and peace of mind, trust the FNAC and biopsy services at NIHS Clinic. Contact us today to schedule your procedure or to learn more about our comprehensive diagnostic services.