Carpal tunnel biopsy

Alternative names:

biopsy - carpal tunnel

How the test is performed:

The skin of your wrist is scrubbed and a local anesthetic is injected. A small incision may be made in the skin. A small sample of tissue is removed from the carpal tunnel (by direct removal of tissue or needle aspiration).

How to prepare for the test:

Fasting may be advised for a few hours before the test.

Infants and children:
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. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

There may be some stinging or burning when the local anesthetic is injected. Some pressure or tugging may be felt during the procedure. Afterward, the area may be tender or sore for a few days.

Why the test is performed:

This test may be performed when amyloidosis is suspected and when symptoms include carpal tunnel syndrome.