Liver Biopsy

It is a procedure done by a specialist in order to diagnose problems of the liver. A local anaesthetic is administered after which a special needle is inserted through the skin and into the liver to obtain a small sample of liver tissue. A nurse assists the doctor during the procedure and an ultrasound scan is used to accurately locate the biopsy site and direct the biopsy needle. This sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis by a pathologist.

The procedure takes place in the doctor’s rooms and takes less than 20 minutes.

• Symptoms of a liver problem such as jaundice (yellow skin and eyes) or very dark urine.
• Abnormal liver ultrasound or abnormal liver function tests.
• Chronic liver condition.
• Treatment with medications which may affect the liver.

As with any procedure, there are possible risks:

• Infections
• Internal bleeding from the biopsy site.
• Damage to organs near the liver (lungs, gallbladder, intestines). This complication is limited by the use of the ultrasound during the procedure.

Every possible care, however, will be taken to prevent these. If you have any questions or concerns, you can discuss these with Dr Kruger.

• You will be admitted to the hospital for 5-6 hours after completion of the procedure.
• Your blood pressure, pulse and temperature will be checked before the procedure and monitored regularly for 4- 5 hours after the procedure.
• After the tissue sample is obtained, an adhesive bandage is placed over the incision site.
• You are to remain in bed for +- 5-6 hours until nursing staff inform otherwise.
• Biopsy results may take a few days.