Biopsy
Liver / Biliary Biopsy

A liver biopsy is most often used to obtain tumor or lesion samples from the liver in effort to identify a tumor's type. Liver biopsy may also be used to evaluate the extent of hepatitis disease, cirrhosis or hemochromatosis.

Patients generally can tolerate liver biopsy with a local anesthetic. In some circumstances, conscious / IV sedation may be necessary. For optimal access to the biopsy site, most patients are positioned on their back for access to the liver between the ribs, under the ribs or below the sternum. Patient sensation varies from firm pressure to a jab in the ribs.

Referred shoulder pain is a somewhat common post procedural complaint. This is due to shared nerve fibers between the shoulder and the covering of the liver.

After the procedure, patients are encouraged to lie quietly, flat and / or on their right side.