Leukemia

Frequently Asked Questions

10. How does a doctor collect bone marrow?

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There are two ways that a doctor can obtain bone marrow: through a bone marrow aspiration or a bone marrow biopsy. A bone marrow aspiration is performed by inserting a needle into the hipbone or another large bone to remove a small amount of bone marrow. In a bone marrow biopsy, marrow is collected with a larger needle. During this procedure, a small piece of bone may also be removed.