CT-Guided Retroperitoneal Biopsy Without Contrast
A CT-guided needle biopsy of the retroperitoneum that obtains tissue for evaluation without using intravenous contrast.
["This procedure uses CT imaging to guide a needle and collect tissue from the retroperitoneum for diagnosis."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 89829-6
- Short code
- CT Guided Retroperitoneum Bx--WO contr
- Synonyms
- CT Guided Retroperitoneum Bx--WO contr
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
A CT-guided retroperitoneal biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a radiologist uses CT scans to guide a needle into an abnormal area behind the abdominal lining. A small tissue sample is removed and examined by a pathologist.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be recommended to evaluate an unexplained mass, enlarged lymph node, or other abnormal retroperitoneal finding. It can help determine whether the finding represents cancer, infection, inflammation, or another condition.
How is the test performed?
You will usually lie on a CT table, and the area to be biopsied is cleaned and numbed. Under CT guidance, the doctor inserts a biopsy needle and collects tissue. The samples are sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination, and a bandage is placed over the biopsy site. No intravenous contrast is used for this procedure.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center, especially any instructions about medicines, fasting, or sedation. Tell the care team about blood-thinning medicines, medication allergies, prior contrast reactions, pregnancy possibility, or any bleeding problems. Do not stop a prescribed medicine unless the clinician instructs you to do so.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The biopsy may identify benign tissue, cancer, infection, or an inflammatory process, helping guide further evaluation and treatment. Sometimes the sample is too limited to make a diagnosis, in which case another biopsy or a different diagnostic method may be needed. Results should be reviewed with your clinician in the context of your symptoms and imaging findings.
Short name
CT-guided retroperitoneal biopsy
Frequently asked questions
Will I need contrast for this procedure?
Is a CT-guided retroperitoneal biopsy painful?
What happens after the biopsy?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy