Procedures
Liver Biopsy is
a procedure in which a needle is inserted through the skin into the liver to obtain a
specimen of liver tissue for examination by a pathologist to determine the presence or
absence of liver disease.
What to expect:
Your doctor may give you medication
through a vein to help you relax and better tolerate any discomfort during the procedure.
A local anesthetic will be used to deaden the skin through which the biopsy needle will be
inserted. The skin will be cleaned thoroughly with a solution to kill germs on the skin.
You may feel like you are being punched as the biopsy needle is inserted. The biopsy
needle will collect a very small amount of liver tissue which will be sent to a
pathologist for examination. Once the needle is withdrawn, pressure will be applied to the
site for a few minutes to prevent bruising. There is sometimes bruising around the site,
even when pressure is applied. A bandaid will be placed over the puncture site. You will
be placed on your right side after the procedure to keep pressure there for awhile. You
will usually be monitored for several hours after the procedure before you can leave. You
may feel drowsy after the medication given to relax you. You may feel some soreness over
the puncture site for a day or so.
Preparation:
If the procedure is planned ahead, you
may be asked to refrain from taking aspirin, ibuprofen or blood thinner medications for a
few days before the procedure. You may receive a medication to help you relax during the
procedure. The skin will be cleaned with an antiseptic to kill germs on the skin. A local
anesthetic will be used to deaden the skin before the procedure. You will need someone to
take you home, since the medication may make you drowsy. |
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Disclaimer: Nothing found at this website should be construed as medical advice or
treatment recommendations. For any symptoms you may have, you should see your family
physician or a gastroenterologist.
©1999-2006 Digestive Health Associates of Texas,
P.A.
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