Question 1

How long does it take for the hole in the bone to heal up after a bone marrow biopsy?

Accepted Answer

The small hole in the bone left by a bone marrow biopsy will heal over a period of a few months.  However the size and location of the bone defect will not cause any changes in the strength of the bone.  There is no increased risk of fracture.

Question 2

How long does it take to get results from a bone marrow biopsy?

Accepted Answer

2 to 3 working days. A rapid preliminary result can be available in hours with a concern for acute leukemia. If a reference lab is used it can take 7-10 days.

Question 3

How long does it take to get the bone marrow biopsy results?

Accepted Answer

The general results from a bone marrow biopsy are usually available in less than 1 week.  This will depend on the lab/pathologists reviewing the bone marrow and usually it is just 2-4 days.  However some special tests may be done on the specimen that can take additional time.  Also, molecular and cytogenetic (chromosome) tests can take longer.

Question 4

Are there any medications i should take before a bone marrow biopsy?

Accepted Answer

This procedure is under the control of the doctor how perform it.Follow his instruction.

Question 5

How long could the pain last after a bone marrow biopsy?

Accepted Answer

Should be no more than a few days; and that is on the longer  side of the estimate.

Question 6

How long should i experience pain after a bone marrow biopsy?

Accepted Answer

Normally- you may feel some tenderness for a week or more after your bone marrow exam. Ask your doctor about taking a pain reliever, such as Acetaminophen (tylenol, others). Some people have pain that will last longer. If you are getting more and more pain then have it checked out.

Question 7

How long should  i  be experiencing pain after a  bone marrow biopsy?

Accepted Answer

Everybody is different.  You must keep in mind that your body heals as fast as your genes and diet will allow.  If you eat unhealthy food, smoke and drink a lot, you may take a long time to heal.  If you eat right, exercise, drink plenty of water, you may heal up in record time.  Please keep in mind that your doctor can only estimate or ball park this for you, no one can give you an exact time.

Question 8

How soon after a bone marrow biopsy could the diagnosis of leukemia be made?

Accepted Answer

It depends. If the bone marrow is "packed" with cancer cells it may be obvious on an initial review by a hematologist and/or hematopathologist.  However, for a new diagnosis i generally tell patients it may potentially be a week for special stains/studies and "send out" studies to fully characterize the bone marrow.

Question 9

How long does after a bone marrow biopsy does hurt it for?

Accepted Answer

See my previous answer.  Usually a day or so unless there were complications.  If longer than a couple of day, i would call the doctor and discuss.  There could be bleeding at the site with a hematoma or potentially an infection.  A bruise is to be expected and can cause some soreness.

Question 10

Will i need time off work after a bone marrow biopsy?

Accepted Answer

The site of biopsy will be sore for a day or two, but you should be able to return to work the day after. More important for your ability to work may be the reason for which you need bone marrow biopsy.

How long does it take for the hole in the bone to heal up after a bone marrow biopsy