What is a Liver Biopsy?
A liver biopsy is a procedure in which a tiny sample of liver tissue is removed for examination under a microscope.

Why Do I Need It?
A liver biopsy may be done to help evaluate your liver function and to help find the cause of  liver disorders or damage.  It also may be done if you have hepatitis, jaundice or cirrhosis. 

What Are the Risks?
While any medical procedure has risks, the frequency of complications from a liver biopsy is very small.  Infrequent complications include bleeding or a leak of bile from the gallbladder or liver. 

Will it Hurt?
While it is normal to have some degree of apprehension prior to your test, you should experience little or no discomfort.  You may feel a quick pressure or feeling of discomfort as the needle is inserted but usually there is no pain.

What Preparation is Needed?
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your exam.  DO NOT take any aspirin or aspirin-containing drugs for 5 days before your biopsy.  If you take Coumadin or other blood-thinning medications, stop taking them 3 days before the procedure.  Bring a responsible person with you to drive you home.

What Can I Expect During the Procedure?
While lying on your back with your right arm above your head, the skin over the liver will be numbed with an injection of local anesthetic.  You will be asked to take a few deep breaths, and then hold your breath.  While holding your breath, a tiny sample of liver tissue is obtained by quickly inserting and withdrawing a fine needle into the liver.  This takes only 1 or 2 seconds.  A small bandage or Band-Aid is placed over the site.

What Happens After the Procedure?
After your biopsy is completed you will be asked to lie on your right side for about 4 hours.  Your blood pressure and pulse will be monitored frequently and the bandage checked often.  When you go home you should rest for the rest of the day and may return to work the next day. 

When Will I Find Out the Results of My Test?
The specimen obtained from your biopsy will be sent to the laboratory for examination under a microscope.  It normally takes 4 to 5 days before the report is received from the laboratory.