How is a liver biopsy done?

A liver biopsy is done by inserting a needle through the skin into the liver, which is located in the right upper cavity of your abdomen, and removing a tissue sample for laboratory examination.  more

A liver biopsy is done in a hospital. You will probably lie flat on your back during the whole procedure. First, the doctor will "prep" you by finding the exact location of the liver inside your body. Then, the doctor will clean the skin above this location, and inject a local anesthetic (pain-killer) into the area. After the anesthetic has taken effect, the doctor will use a needle to take out a small piece of your liver. This part of the procedure is done quickly. Is a liver biopsy painful? Most people who get a liver biopsy say that it doesn't hurt. You may feel a sting when the doctor injects the anesthetic. You might also have a feeling of pressure when the doctor inserts the biopsy needle into your side. Some people say that they feel this pressure in their right shoulder, as well. What happens after the liver biopsy is done? After the biopsy is done, your doctor might ask you to roll over onto your side and lie still for one or two hours. This is to make sure that you do not ...  more