Liver Biopsy

What is a liver biopsy?

A procedure which takes a small piece of tissue from the liver for biopsy.
A very thin hollow needle is punctured through the skin in the area of the liver.

What will the biopsy show?

It can show the amount of damage to the liver from different types of liver diseases or treatment:
Acute or chronic jaundice
Drug-related liver disease
Hepatitis
Cirrhosis/Portal Hypertension
Abnormal Liver Function Test
Check response to drug therapy
Infections or other diseases

One week before the test.

DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING AFTER MIDNIGHT!

You can take your routine medications the morning of the test with a sip of water. DO NOT TAKE ANY MEDICATIONS FOR DIABETES!

Bring an adult with you, or have someone drive you home, or we will not be able to do the exam.

What happens during the biopsy?

You will have to change into a hospital gown.
You will be told about the test and be asked to sign a consent form. Feel free to ask questions.
You will lie on your back with your right arm positioned under your head.
The doctor and nurse will explain breathing techniques to use during the procedure.
The area for the biopsy is marked
The site is then scrubbed and cleaned with a medication to decrease the chance of infection. It is very important that you do not move, or the area will become contaminated.
The area is then numbed with a local anesthetic. (It feels like a bee sting)
When the needle is inserted you will feel a jab (thump) to your right side. If enough tissue is obtained, the test is completed.

How long will the biopsy take?

The test takes about 15 minutes.
Because of the risk of bleeding, you will be taken to the recovery room and stay for approximately 4 hours.
You may leave once you have tolerated a liquid diet, and your vital signs are stable.
No driving
Do not lift anything heavier than a telephone book for 24 hours.
Results of the biopsy will be given to you at your next clinic appointment.