A test called a bone marrow aspirate is done to see if cells in the bone marrow are healthy. Bone marrow is the liquid/spongy part inside bone, where blood cells are made.
For this test, a needle is placed in a bone (usually the hipbone) and a small amount of bone marrow is pulled into a syringe. It is sent to the laboratory to be tested for cancer cells.
The child may feel some pain when the needle is placed in the bone, and may feel pressure when a syringe removes the bone marrow cells.
Risks
- Pain is the most common risk
- Infection at the site, uncommon
- Bleeding under the skin where the needle was placed, uncommon
Support
Most commonly, the patient lies on his or her abdomen for this test. A staff member will help get the child into the proper position and support that position throughout the procedure.
- Numbing medicines and sometimes sedation can minimize pain and anxiety.
- Lying still can be stressful for children. Rehearsing the position before the test can help the child to feel in control and understand what he needs to do.
- Helping the child understand what will happen will reduce anxiety.
Reviewed June 2008