Bone marrow aspiration is a procedure frequently used in the medical field due to its wide variety of applications. It is possible to evaluate bone marrow aspirate for anemia, diseases of the bone marrow, leukemias and lymphomas, and other blood cell pathologies. However, according to Healthline, there are some risks associated with bone marrow aspiration. While these occurrences are rare, possible risks include:
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Infection
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Continued discomfort, even more than a week after the procedure
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Excessive bleeding
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An allergic reaction to the local anesthesia administered before the procedure
However, the use of a certain type of bone marrow aspiration kit can help to lower some of these risks and therefore minimize host morbidity.
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Patient discomfort can be lessened due to a thoughtfully-designed bone marrow aspiration kit. With the right design, the medical professional performing the bone marrow aspiration can more easily reposition the aspiration device within the bone marrow for a varied and plentiful sample. Additionally, a well-designed bone marrow aspiration kit makes retrieval of the device from the incision effortless.
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After each perpendicular aspiration of marrow from around the device, some aspiration kits employ a technique which allows for precise repositioning of the harvesting cannula within the marrow space. This means that a clinician will only require a single incision or access point, reducing wound healing time, patient risk, the possibility of infection from multiple entry points, and the risk of excess bleeding from more than one incision.
Unfortunately, there is always a small likelihood of a patient having an allergic reaction to anesthesia, which is not a risk that can be reduced by the type of bone marrow aspiration kit used. However, the ease of use of these kits does allow a clinician more flexibility when performing the procedure so that, if necessary, they can keep a watchful eye on the patient or take appropriate measures during an emergency.
