A liver biopsy is a procedure whereby a small piece of liver tissue is obtained to exam under a microscope. Biopsies are done for several different reasons. Most commonly a biopsy is taken for the evaluation of certain liver diseases to determine the severity of inflammation and scarring in the liver. Sometimes biopsies are done to determine the cause of elevated liver enzymes when other testing has been negative. Finally, liver biopsies can be performed in patients with lesions in the liver to test for tumors both benign and malignant.
Biopsies are performed with local anesthetic, although intravenous sedation may be given to help relax the patient.
The procedure involves placing a small needle through the skin into the liver using either ultrasound or CT scan to ensure proper placem
PRE-OP INSTRUCTIONS
When your test results are received in the office you will be notified to schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results and further plan of care with the physician. Liver biopsy results are not discussed or reviewed by the staff over the phone. If you have any questions, please call the office.
