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A CT-guided biopsy uses CT images to guide a fine needle to take a small tissue sample. Learn how it's done, how to prepare, and what to expect afterwards.
Also called: CT biopsy, CT guided lung biopsy, CT guided needle biopsy, percutaneous biopsy
Find a clinic for your ct-guided biopsy
26 clinics offer bulk billing for CT scan — eligibility varies
Where to get a ct-guided biopsy
26 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly list ct-guided biopsy among their services.
Clinics for a ct-guided biopsy on Radly
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What is a ct-guided biopsy?
A CT-guided biopsy is a procedure where a radiologist uses CT pictures to guide a thin needle into an area of concern — for example in the lung, bone, liver or a lymph node — and take a small sample of tissue. The sample is then examined in a laboratory.
It's done under local anaesthetic, sometimes with light sedation, so you're awake but comfortable. It avoids the need for an operation in many cases. Many biopsied areas turn out to be benign, and your specialist will talk you through the results.
Why your doctor might request a ct-guided biopsy
- Sampling a lung nodule or mass seen on a scan
- Sampling a bone lesion
- Sampling an enlarged lymph node
- Sampling a finding in the liver, kidney or other organ
CT-guided biopsy: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your ct-guided biopsy
- Tell the clinic about blood thinners, antiplatelet medication and diabetes medication — you may need to pause some, under your doctor's advice
- A recent blood test (including clotting) may be required
- You'll usually need to fast for several hours
- Arrange for someone to drive you home
- Bring previous scans relevant to the biopsy
How long it takes: About 2–4 hours at the clinic, including observation afterwards
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
A CT-guided biopsy needs a referral, often from a specialist, and the radiology team usually reviews your scans first to plan the procedure. With a valid referral it attracts a Medicare rebate; out-of-pocket costs vary between clinics. The clinic will confirm billing and any medication changes with you. Booking through Radly sends a request, and the clinic confirms the time with you.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your ct-guided biopsy and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
CT-guided biopsy FAQs
Does a CT-guided biopsy hurt?
Local anaesthetic numbs the area. Most people feel pressure rather than pain, and some soreness afterwards.
Can I drive after a CT-guided biopsy?
No — arrange for someone to take you home, especially if you've had sedation.
How long until I get results?
Laboratory results usually take several days. They go to your referring doctor, who will discuss them with you.
How do I book a ct-guided biopsy online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select CT Scan as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get a ct-guided biopsy?
Appointments for CT scan are usually 1–4 days, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
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