Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy

Aspiration, Bone Marrow, Biopsy, Bone Marrow

How It Feels

You may feel a sharp sting and burn when the anesthetic numbs your skin over the aspiration or biopsy site. You may hear a crunching sound and feel pressure and some pain when the needle enters the bone. The pain usually lasts for only a few seconds. During an aspiration, you may feel a quick, shooting pain down your leg as the sample is taken. This pain stops as soon as the sample is removed.

The biopsy site may feel stiff or sore for 1 or 2 days after the biopsy. You may have a bruise on the site.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Bets Davis, MFA	Last Updated: November 26, 2008
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Brian Leber, MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.