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Ency. home > Test > L > Liver biopsy

Liver biopsy   

Overview | Risks | Results

Alternative names:

Biopsy - liver; Percutaneous biopsy

Definition:

The liver is a pyramid-shaped organ that lies within the upper right side of the abdomen. In this procedure, a needle is inserted through the rib cage or abdominal wall and into the liver to obtain a sample for examination.

How the Test is Performed

The test is usually done in the hospital. You are given a sedative and pain medication by injection before the test. You will be lying on your back with your right hand under your head. It is important to be as still as possible. The health care provider will examine the liver and determine the correct spot for the biopsy needle to be inserted. The skin will be cleansed, and a small needle will be used to inject a local anesthetic to numb the area. A small incision is made, and the biopsy needle is inserted. You will then be instructed to hold your breath while the biopsy is taken. This is to reduce the chance of puncturing the lung or tearing the liver. The needle is inserted and removed quickly. Pressure will be applied to stop bleeding, and a bandage is placed over the insertion site.

How to Prepare for the Test

Tell your health care provider about any drug allergies you may have, which medications you are taking, if you have bleeding problems, and if you are pregnant. You must sign a consent form. Blood tests are sometimes done to test for the ability to clot. You may not have food or fluid 8 hours before the test.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

How the Test will Feel

There is a stinging pain with the anesthetic needle and the anesthetic being injected. The biopsy needle may be felt as a deep pressure and dull pain. This pain is sometimes felt in the shoulder.

Why the Test is Performed

The test helps detect cancer, infections, the cause of an unexplained enlargement of the liver, and abnormal liver enzymes that have been detected in blood tests. It also helps diagnose a number of liver diseases.

Ency. home > Test > L > Liver biopsy

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