What happens during a PDL1 test?Most PDL1 tests are done in a procedure called a biopsy. There are three main types of biopsy procedures:Fine needle aspiration biopsy, which uses a very thin needle to remove a sample of cells or fluidCore needle biopsy, which uses a larger needle to remove a sampleSurgical biopsy, which removes a sample in a minor, outpatient procedureFine needle aspiration and core needle biopsies usually include the following steps:You will lay on your side or sit on an exam table.A health care provider will clean the biopsy site and inject it with an anesthetic so you won't feel any pain during the procedure.Once the area is numb, the provider will insert either a fine aspiration needle or core biopsy needle into the biopsy site and remove a sample of tissue or fluid.You may feel a little pressure when the sample is withdrawn.Pressure will be applied to the biopsy site until the bleeding stops.Your provider will apply a sterile bandage at the biopsy site.In a surgical biopsy, a surgeon will make a small cut in your skin to remove all or part of a breast lump. A surgical biopsy is sometimes done if the lump can't be reached with a needle biopsy. Surgical biopsies usually include the following steps.You will lie on an operating table. An IV (intravenous line) may be placed in your arm or hand.You may be given medicine, called a sedative, to help you relax.You will be given local or general anesthesia so you won't feel pain during the procedure.For local anesthesia, a health care provider will inject the biopsy site with medicine to numb the area.For general anesthesia, a specialist called an anesthesiologist will give you medicine so you will be unconscious during the procedure.Once the biopsy area is numb or you are unconscious, the surgeon will make a small cut into the breast and remove part or all of a lump. Some tissue around the lump may also be removed.The cut in your skin will be closed with stitches or adhesive strips.There are different types of biopsies. The type of biopsy you get will depend on the location and size of your tumor.
