Discharge Instructions for Liver Biopsy
You had a procedure called liver biopsy. A doctor used a special needle to remove a small piece of tissue from your liver. Then it was examined for signs of damage or disease. A liver biopsy is ordered after other tests have shown that your liver is not working properly. You may also have a liver biopsy when liver disease is suspected, to determine whether there is too much iron in the liver, or to rule out cancer.
Home Care
Don’t drive for 48 hours after the procedure.
Remove the bandage covering the biopsy site 48 hours after the procedure.
Rest for 4 hours (2 hours on your right side and 2 hours on your back) and take it easy.
Don’t shower for 24 hours after the biopsy. If you wish, you may wash yourself with a sponge or washcloth. When you are able to shower, don’t scrub the site. Gently wash the area and pat it dry.
Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds for 3–4 days after the procedure.
Ask your doctor when you can return to work.
Follow-Up
Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following:
Bleeding from the biopsy site
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Sudden or increased shortness of breath
Sudden chest pain
Fever above 100.4°F (38.0°C)
Shaking chills
Increasing redness, tenderness, or swelling at the biopsy site
Drainage from the biopsy site
Opening of the biopsy site
Rectal bleeding or bloody stools
Increasing pain, with or without activity