More than one bone-marrow sample may be required. A blood sample is collected before the procedure. You may be given a mild sedative an hour before the procedure. The anesthetic is administered. The procedure does not begin until you are numb.
Skin is cleaned with antiseptic.
You will feel some pressure when the biopsy needle is inserted. You will also feel a brief, pulling pain on removal of the marrow. Remain as still as possible. Pain disappears quickly. A sample is drawn into the syringe.