General Information
Liver Biopsy is performed to evaluate liver problems such as Hepatitis C. Liver Biopsy is usually done in the hospital. The actual procedure requires approximately 30 minutes to perform. The actual time that a needle is within the liver is only seconds. Usually the biopsy is performed between the ribs on the right side. Sometimes the biopsy is done with the guidance of an ultrasound machine or a CT scanner.
Alternative Evaluations
In many cases, the liver biopsy is required for examination of the tissue. There are indirect tests that can provide information to the physician. However, none of these will substitute for actual liver tissue. The alternative evaluations include a liver spleen scan, ultrasound, CT scan and MRI of the liver.
Before the Procedure (Preparation)
You should discuss your medication with your physician prior to the procedure. Usually, medications are not taken the morning of the procedure. However, some medications should be taken if the procedure is to be done later in the afternoon. Adjustments in your insulin dose should also be discussed with the physician.
You should not eat or drink any food or liquids, unless approved by your physician, for approximately 12 hours before the procedure. No other special preparations are required. Depending upon your individual medical problems, you may require antibiotics before the procedure. If you have a history heart problems involving the valves of the heart or have had antibiotics before dental work, please inform your physician well in advance. This will allow the hospital staff time to prepare and administer these medications.
Complications of the Procedure
The risks associated with this procedure are:
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Perforation of the gallbladder or a bile duct |
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Pneumothorax |
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Bleeding |
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Infection |
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Laceration of the Liver |
When all the complications of Liver biopsy are combined, the chance that a complication will occur is about 1/300 cases.
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Other Endoscopic Procedures
- Colonoscopy |
ERCP |
Esophageal Manometry |
EGD |
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy |
Liver Biopsy
Related Links
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Patient Education:
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