When a lymph node is persistently swollen, abnormal in size or shape, or suspected to be affected by conditions such as lymphoma, metastatic cancer, or persistent infections, an excisional lymph node biopsy may be needed.
Excisional lymph node biopsies are surgical procedures in which an entire lymph node is removed for examination under a microscope. By analyzing the removed lymph node, doctors can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best treatment for your specific condition.
Benefits of Having an Excisional Lymph Node Biopsy
Whether identifying an infection, an autoimmune condition, or detecting cancer early, this procedure gives you and your doctors the clarity needed to take the next steps toward healing and better health. Other benefits of excisional lymph node biopsies include:
- Comprehensive and Accurate Diagnosis – Provides a complete tissue sample for precise evaluation of infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancer.
- Early Detection of Serious Conditions—This helps identify cancer or other diseases in their early stages, improving treatment outcomes.
- Guides Targeted Treatment Plans – Enables doctors to develop the most effective, personalized treatment strategy based on clear biopsy results.
- Minimally Invasive with Lasting Answers – A straightforward procedure that can provide long-term clarity and peace of mind.
- Helps Rule Out Serious Illnesses—Confirming or ruling out major health concerns can eliminate the need for unnecessary treatments.
- Performed by Expert Surgeons – At Premier Surgical Network, board-certified specialists ensure precision, safety, and expert post-procedure care.
What to Expect
Before
Before the procedure, your doctor will review your medical history, perform any necessary imaging tests, and provide pre-surgical instructions, such as fasting if general anesthesia is required. You’ll also be able to ask questions about the procedure and recovery.
During
During the procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision to remove the lymph node. The procedure usually takes less than an hour, and your surgeon may use sutures or adhesive strips to close the incision.
After
After the procedure, you may experience mild soreness, swelling, or bruising at the incision site, which typically improves within a few days. Your doctor will provide aftercare instructions, including activity restrictions and instructions on how to care for the incision. Biopsy results are typically available within a few days to a week, at which point your doctor will discuss the findings and any necessary next steps.
Recovering From Excisional Lymph Node Biopsy
Recovery after an excisional lymph node biopsy is typically straightforward, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days. Mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the incision site are common but usually subside within a week. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and instruct you to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection.
Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for about one to two weeks, depending on the location of the biopsy. If you experience increased pain, redness, drainage, or signs of infection such as fever, you should also contact your doctor promptly.
Risks and Side Effects
While an excisional lymph node biopsy is generally a safe and routine procedure, it carries risks and potential post-procedure side effects, like any surgery. Your doctor will discuss these with you beforehand, but here are some of the most common ones to be aware of:
- Pain or Discomfort: Mild to moderate pain at the incision site is common and usually manageable with over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers.
- Swelling and Bruising: Some degree of swelling and bruising around the incision is expected but typically resolves within a few days.
- Bleeding or Hematoma Formation: In rare cases, excess bleeding or the formation of a hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin) may occur, requiring medical attention.
- Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, which can cause redness, warmth, pus-like drainage, fever, or chills. Keeping the incision clean and following aftercare instructions helps reduce this risk.
- Nerve Damage: Depending on the location of the biopsy, there is a small risk of nerve damage, which may cause temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness, tingling, or weakness in the area.
- Scarring: A small scar will form at the incision site; while it typically fades over time, the degree of scarring varies by individual.
- Allergic Reaction to Anesthesia: Though rare, some individuals may have an allergic reaction to local or general anesthesia used during the procedure.
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