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Forum Name: Liver Diseases

Question: Liver biopsy

bodave2 - Thu Jan 25, 2007 2:48 pm

I recently posted on this forum about a liver issue ive been having, Ive now, after a ultrasound and over 20 blood tests ruled out each and every thing that could be wrong and my liver enzymes are still slightly elevated. Im relieved that it was not some auto immune problem becouse those sounded real bad. Anyway, I now need a liver biopsy to see if maby im one of the few whos healthy, young, not over weight ,not diabetic and not a heavy drinker. But I was wondering how how is the biopsy done, am I going to be out of school afterwards? Does it hurt?

Dr. Safaa Mahmoud - Mon Jan 29, 2007 5:05 pm

Hello, - Patients should be checked for contraindications or any conditions that increase complications like prothrombin time and concentration and blood count. - Many centers provides routine observation for 2-4 hours post biopsy. Steps for liver biopsy are generally: -Patients stay in supine position. -Ultrasound or CT imaging are usually used to guide for the biopsy site. -Local antiseptic measures are done here the needle will be introduced. -Local anesthesia with 1% lidocaine. -A small incision in the skin is made for the biopsy needle. -Biopsy is taken. -Pressure over the biopsy site, then an adhesive bandage is added. -Patients stay in this position for 1 hour to avoid bleeding or bile leakage. -Vital signs are measured frequently till discharge. Complications are rare and occur mostly during first 24 hours(majority in the first 2 hours) Pain accounts for 30% of compactions reported by patients but usually remain for short duration and relieved by Analgesics. If severe Abdominal pain occur your Doctor should be reported immediately. Best regards.

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