A liver biopsy is a procedure in which a small needle is inserted into the liver to collect a tissue sample. This is performed as an office or outpatient procedure or during surgery. The tissue is then analyzed in a laboratory to help doctors diagnose a variety of disorders and diseases in the liver. A liver biopsy is most often performed to help identify the cause of:
- Persistent abnormal liver blood tests (liver enzymes).
- Unexplained yellowing of the skin (jaundice).
- A liver abnormality found on ultrasound, CT scan, or nuclear scan.
- Unexplained enlargement of the liver.
Is Liver Biopsy Safe?
In most instances, there are no complications in obtaining a liver biopsy. However, rarely internal bleeding may occur, as well as a leak of bile from the liver or gallbladder.
How Do I Prepare for a Liver Biopsy?
When preparing for a liver biopsy, there are several things to keep in mind.
- Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant, have a lung or heart condition, are allergic to any medications, or have bleeding problems.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking blood-thinning medications such as Coumadin, Plavix, or Persantine. Your doctor may prescribe an alternate method for thinning your blood before the procedure.
- For the week before the procedure, do not take aspirin, products containing aspirin, or anti-inflammatory drugs(such as ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Naprosyn, or Indocin) unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
Do not discontinue any medication without first consulting with your primary or referring doctor.