What are the risks of a liver biopsy?
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Lisa Moment of Honor Society of Nursing (STTI) answered:Two of the most common risks with a liver biopsy are bleeding and infection.
- The liver is a very vascular organ, meaning that it has a lot of blood flow, which increases the risk of bleeding. Before a liver biopsy, you may be asked to stop taking any anticoagulants that increase the risk of bleeding such as aspirin, Plavix, or Coumadin. Anticoagulant or "blood thinning" medications are usually stopped at least five days before the procedure. Also, an INR is drawn on everyone before the biopsy to help determine whether you are at risk for bleeding. The higher the result of the INR, the greater you are at risk for bleeding. If your INR is too high, the doctor performing the biopsy may cancel the biopsy.
- Infection is another risk of a liver biopsy. Liver biopsies are sterile procedures, which makes the risk of infection very small. You will be educated about signs and symptoms of infection before you are discharged.
Two of the most common risks with a liver biopsy are bleeding and infection. The liver is a very vascular organ, meaning that it has a lot of blood flow, which increases the risk of bleeding. Before a liver biopsy, you may be asked to... More -
Healthwise answered:Serious problems from a liver biopsy are rare. Problems can include:
- Bleeding, which may need blood transfusions or surgery to correct.
- A collapsed lung (pneumothorax).
- Injury to the intestines, gallbladder or kidney.
- Infection in the belly (peritonitis).
- Signs of shock.
- Severe pain in your chest, shoulder or belly.
- Moderate to severe trouble breathing.
After the test, call your doctor immediately if you have:
- A lot of bleeding from the needle site.
- A fast or skipping heartbeat.
- A fever.
- Shortness of breath.
- Increasing pain at the needle site.
- Blood in your stool.
- Swelling or bloating in your belly.
Serious problems from a liver biopsy are rare. Problems can include: Bleeding, which may need blood transfusions or surgery to correct. A collapsed lung (pneumothorax). Injury to the intestines, gallbladder or kidney. Infection in the belly... More
