Liver Biopsy

What is a liver biopsy?

A liver biopsy is a procedure done to remove a sample of liver tissue for examination under a microscope.

When is it used?

This procedure is used to test for liver diseases such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, and tumors. It is also used to check the progress of treatment in diseases such as chronic hepatitis.

How do I prepare for a liver biopsy?

Plan for your care and recovery after the procedure. Allow for time to rest and find other people to help you for 24 hours or so after the procedure.

Follow any instructions your healthcare provider gives you. Your provider will want you to stop taking any medicine that may interfere with blood-clotting, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and Coumadin (warfarin) for 1 week before the biopsy.

What happens during the procedure?

A liver biopsy is done using local anesthesia. The local anesthetic numbs the area around the lower ribs on the right side of the body.

While you lie down and hold your breath, your provider makes a small cut and inserts a thin needle into your liver. A sample of liver tissue is removed and examined under a microscope in a lab.

Usually the procedure is done with a CT or ultrasound scan to help guide the needle. It might also be done during a laparoscopy or abdominal surgery under general anesthesia.

What happens after the procedure?

After the biopsy, you may need to lie on your right side for some hours and then on your back for a while longer to prevent or decrease bleeding. Your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are monitored to watch for bleeding complications.

Ask your healthcare provider what steps you should take and when you should come back for a checkup.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

This procedure helps your provider diagnose and evaluate your problem.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

• The local anesthetic may not numb the area quite enough and you may feel some minor discomfort. Also, in rare cases, you may have an allergic reaction to the drug used in this type of anesthesia.
• You may have internal bleeding from the biopsy.
• The area where the needle was inserted might become infected.
• Your lung might be punctured.

You should ask your provider how these risks apply to you.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your provider right away if:

• You develop a fever.
• You have new pain, especially in your right shoulder, that is worse when you breathe in, or you have a change or worsening of pain or other symptoms.
• There is any unusual drainage from the biopsy area (including bloody drainage).

Call during office hours if:

• You have questions about the procedure or its result.
• You want to make another appointment.