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All About Pet Biopsies
If your furry friend has a lump or bump, Dr. Finn may recommend a procedure called a biopsy. That involves removing part or all of the mass and sending it to a diagnostic lab for evaluation. Our goal is to determine whether a mass or tumor is benign or malignant to decide on the best course of treatment moving forward.
What Happens During a Biopsy?
The biopsy procedure is usually quick and simple, typically performed under sedation or general anesthesia. Small samples, like skin biopsies, can sometimes be collected under local anesthesia. Dr. Finn will remove a sample of the suspect tissues and submit it to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory. An experienced veterinary pathologist will examine the biopsy sample with the help of a powerful microscope and determine whether the mass or lump is benign or malignant. Results often take a week to 10 days to be returned.
What Are the Most Common Biopsy Procedures?
The type of biopsy depends on your pet's unique needs. Here's a look at the most common biopsy procedures:
- Punch biopsy: We will use a biopsy punch to remove a small, circular piece of tissue from the biopsy site.
- Wedge biopsy: We will remove a small piece of tissue from the mass or growth to be examined.
- Excision biopsy: We will remove the entire mass or tumor before submitting it for evaluation.
What Happens After a Biopsy?
If a microscopic examination determines that the tissue sample is cancerous, we will want to remove as much of the mass as possible, including some healthy tissues in all directions. Our goal is to keep the cancer from spreading. If the biopsy reveals the mass is benign, Dr. Finn will determine whether it's advisable to remove it or let it be.
If surgery is required, Dr. Finn will discuss the procedure with you, answer your questions, and address your concerns. We will do everything we can to get your furry friend on track to the healthiest life possible! You can count on our compassionate team for exceptional care to keep your pet comfortable throughout any procedure.
Biopsies for Dogs and Cats in McKinney TX
If you notice a lump or bump on your furry friend, contact Pet Method Animal Hospital to request a consultation. Dr. Hunter Finn may recommend a biopsy to check for malignancy and determine the best course of treatment to get your feline or canine companion’s health back on track. We're happy to answer your questions and address any concerns. We invite you to call 318-232-4393 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!
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Pet Biopsy FAQs
Not all masses, bumps, and lumps on your pet are cancerous. In fact, most are benign or harmless. However, it is important to have any new or changing mass examined by a veterinarian to rule out cancer. Pet Method offers biopsies and diagnostic testing to help determine the cause of your pet's mass so we can give your furry companion the treatment they need to stay healthy and happy.
Not all lumps or bumps need removal. Dr. Finn will perform an exam and biopsy to determine if your furry friend's lump or mass needs to be removed or if other treatments are better options for their health.
A biopsy will not hurt your pet. Dr. Finn performs all biopsies under sedation, a general anesthetic, or a local anesthetic, meaning your canine or feline friend will be comfortable and feel no pain.