What Is a Myocardial Biopsy?
A myocardial biopsy (also known as heart biopsy or cardiac biopsy) is a surgical procedure designed to pull samples of a patient’s heart muscle tissue (generally the size of a pin-head) for further analysis. Prior to surgery, patients must adhere to careful instructions regarding restricted food and drinks. The doctor may also restrict patient medications the day of the surgery. The surgeon usually administers medication such as sedatives and/or a local anesthetic though an intravenous line. Â
During a myocardial biopsy, the surgeon uses a bioptome (a catheter with a claw-like tip) to remove a piece of heart. The tissue helps determine whether a heart transplant patient is rejecting the new heart. It can also be used to diagnose certain disorders affecting the heart. A myocardial biopsy is generally an outpatient procedure; however, patients may be required to remain overnight. Immediately following a heart biopsy, a doctor or nurse will monitor the patient’s status for several hours to ensure any bleeding has stopped. The patient will return home with post-operation care instructions on dressing and cleaning the wound to help avoid infection. One might also receive a general timeline about when he or she may resume normal activities. The doctor should notify the patient with results of the analysis once the lab results area back.
