Bone marrow is the soft tissue inside bones that helps form
blood cells. It is found in the hollow part of most bones. Bone
marrow aspiration is the removal of a small amount of this
tissue in liquid form for examination. Bone marrow aspiration
may be done in the health care provider's office or in a
hospital. The bone marrow will be removed from your pelvic or
breast bone. Occasionally, another bone is selected. The health
care provider will clean the skin and apply a numbing medicine
(local anesthesia) to the area and surface of the bone. Next, a
special needle is inserted into the bone. The needle has a tube
attached to it, which creates suction. A small sample of bone
marrow fluid flows into the tube. The needle is removed. The
bone marrow fluid is examined under a microscope. How to prepare
for the test Tell the health care provider: If you are allergic
to any medications If you are pregnant If you have bleeding
problems What medications you are taking You must sign a consent
form for the procedure. How