Question
A 2-year-old child underwent a bone marrow biopsy for a diagnosis of mononucleosis, and the parents are worried about the potential physical impact on the child and seek remedial measures. The parents have heard that bone marrow biopsy can cause harm to the body, but the attending physician says it won’t affect the child, which confuses the parents. What are the effects of bone marrow biopsy on a child’s body, and how should post-procedure care be conducted?
Answer
Bone marrow biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that involves taking a bone marrow sample by extracting it from the highest points on either side of the front of the pelvis, a process similar to blood drawing but with stricter sterile operations. For a 2-year-old, this procedure is primarily for diagnosing diseases and does not cause significant harm to the body. After the procedure, it is sufficient for the child to lie flat for six hours. Parents do not need to worry excessively and do not require special care.