What to expect from a bone marrow biopsy for leukaemia

The procedure usually uses the back of the pelvic bone as the collection site. You lie on your side or stomach while the clinician cleans the skin and injects local anaesthetic. A special needle passes through the numbed skin into the bone to collect liquid marrow and sometimes a small core of marrow. You may feel pressure or a brief pulling sensation, even when the skin is numb.

The samples go to a laboratory for examination. Results can help the team assess the marrow and classify the leukaemia, alongside blood tests, scans and other clinical information. Your clinician will explain when and how results will be discussed.

Tell the team about blood-thinning medicines, bleeding problems, allergies, pregnancy, infection, and medicines or supplements you take. Ask whether you need a medicine adjustment or someone to accompany you home. Wear clothing that allows access to the hip area and follow the unit's instructions about food and drink.

Afterward, keep the dressing clean and dry for the period advised by the clinic. Mild soreness can occur; use only pain relief approved for you. Avoid strenuous activity until your team says the site is ready.

Contact the biopsy team for increasing pain, redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, or bleeding that soaks through the dressing. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, fainting, severe weakness, or breathing difficulty. If you take blood-thinning medicine, use the specific instructions given by your clinician.

Ask why the biopsy is needed, which medicines to pause or continue, whether sedation is available, how to protect the wound, when results are expected, and who will explain what they show.