Bone Marrow Smear Examination

Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy are operations used to obtain and study bone marrow, which is the spongy substance found inside some of your bones. Local anesthetic can numb the region where the needles will be put during a bone marrow examination.

A bone marrow exam provides specific information about the health of your bone marrow and blood cells. If blood tests are abnormal or do not offer enough about a suspected condition, your doctor may schedule a bone marrow check.

Bone marrow examinations are frequently conducted as an outpatient procedure. Usually, no special preparation is required. If you are given a sedative during the bone marrow exam, your doctor may urge you to refrain from eating and drinking for some time before the operation. You’ll also need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the event.