[chrisy]

I just had one a few months ago so it is fresh in my mind...

Generally they will do a fine-needle apiration (FNA) which is an outpatient procedure in which a needle is inserted through the skin into the tumor and cells are removed through the needle (like a tiny straw!). It is guided by ultrasound or CT, so they know where to poke.

It is an uncomfortable procedure (read: it hurts some!), more or less depending on where the target tumor is located. You are awake during the procedure because they need you to be able to remain still and hold your breath so things don't move around, but you will receive some light sedation and pain. killers also during the procedure. It is as I said not comfortable, but it is tolerable.

Afterwards they will monitor you for at least an hour or more, to be sure there is no bleeding, then you can go home. You'll be advised to avoid strenuous exercise for a couple of days.

Hope this was not too graphic, but you did ask. The main point is, despite the description it is very doable and you will feel fine within a day or two.