The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. There will be a prick and a slight burning sensation with the local anesthetic. One will feel pressure as the needle is inserted into the bone. There is a sharp sucking sensation as the marrow is aspirated, which lasts for only a few moments. There may be some bleeding at the puncture site.
More serious risks are very rare.
It is also helpful in diagnosing some types of anemia and infections. The examination of the bone marrow can help diagnose myelofibrosis , granulomas , lymphoma , cancer , anemias , and causes of thrombocytopenia and thrombocytosis. In addition to examination of the marrow smear, genetic studies can be performed. Different stains may help in identifying a type of cancer or anemia . This test should not be done if the person has a severe bleeding disorder .