Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy remove a small sample of liquid marrow and a thin core of bone from the hip bone to examine blood cell production. It is used to diagnose and stage leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma, to evaluate unexplained abnormal blood counts and to check whether cancer has spread to the marrow.

The patient lies on their side or stomach. The skin is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic, and a needle is passed into the bone. Aspiration can cause a brief deep ache. The whole procedure takes about twenty to thirty minutes. Pressure is applied afterwards, and a dressing is placed.

How the Procedure Can Help

It gives a precise diagnosis and guides treatment decisions that blood tests alone cannot.

Risks and Considerations

Soreness, bruising and mild bleeding are common. Infection and heavy bleeding are rare, and patients on blood thinners or with low platelets need individual planning. Increasing pain, swelling, fever or bleeding at the site needs urgent review.