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Muscle biopsy
Definition:
A muscle biopsy is a procedure involving the removal and examination of a piece of muscle tissue. Alternative Names:
Biopsy - muscle Text Continues Below
How the test is performed:
A muscle biopsy can usually be obtained while you are awake and the area being biopsied is numbed by local anesthesia. A needle biopsy may be adequate in children and adults with chronic conditions. In this procedure, a needle in inserted into the muscle. A small "plug" of tissue remains in the needle when it is removed from the muscle. This tissue is sent to a pathologist for examination. More than one needle insertion may be needed to obtain a large enough specimen for testing and examination. Open biopsy involves a small incision through the skin and into the muscle, so that a sample of muscle tissue can be removed from the affected area. A muscle that has recently been traumatized, such as by an EMG needle, or that is affected by pre-existing condition, such as nerve compression, is not a good choice for a biopsy. The muscle chosen for biopsy must be appropriate for the symptoms or suspected condition. How to prepare for the test:
No fasting or other special preparation is usually necessary. You may be asked to wear loose clothing or a hospital gown so that the muscle chosen for biopsy is easily accessible. You must sign an informed consent form. For infants and children: The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
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