Why do you lay on the right side after a liver biopsy?
OverviewA liver biopsy is a procedure to remove a small piece of liver tissue, so it can be examined under a microscope for signs of damage or disease. Your doctor may recommend a liver biopsy if blood tests or imaging studies suggest you might have a liver problem. A liver biopsy is also used to determine the severity of liver disease. This information helps guide treatment decisions. Show
The most common type of liver biopsy is called percutaneous liver biopsy. It involves inserting a thin needle through your abdomen into the liver and removing a small piece of tissue. Two other types of liver biopsy — one using a vein in the neck (transjugular) and the other using a small abdominal incision (laparoscopic) — also remove liver tissue with a needle. Why it's doneA liver biopsy may be done to:
Your doctor may recommend a liver biopsy if you have:
A liver biopsy also is commonly performed to help diagnose and stage certain liver diseases, including:
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RisksA liver biopsy is a safe procedure when performed by an experienced doctor. Possible risks include:
In a transjugular procedure, a thin tube is inserted through a large vein in your neck and passed down into the vein that runs through your liver. If you have a transjugular liver biopsy, other infrequent risks include:
How you prepareBefore your liver biopsy, you'll meet with your doctor to talk about what to expect during the biopsy. This is a good time to ask questions about the procedure and make sure you understand the risks and benefits. Food and medicationsWhen you meet with your doctor, bring a list of all medications you take, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins and herbal supplements. Before your liver biopsy, you'll likely be asked to stop taking medications and supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding, including:
You may be asked not to drink or eat for six to eight hours before the liver biopsy. Some people can eat a light breakfast. Pre-biopsy blood testsBefore your biopsy, you'll have a blood test to check your blood's ability to clot. If you have blood-clotting problems, you may be given a medication before your biopsy to reduce the risk of bleeding. Arrangements for your recoveryYou may receive a sedative before your liver biopsy. If this is the case, arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. Have someone stay with you or check on you during the first night. Many doctors recommend that people spend the first evening within an hour's driving distance of the hospital where the biopsy is done, in case a complication develops. What you can expectWhat you can expect during your liver biopsy will depend on the type of procedure you'll undergo. A percutaneous liver biopsy is the most common type of liver biopsy, but it isn't an option for everyone. Your doctor may recommend a different form of liver biopsy if you:
During the procedureA liver biopsy is done at a hospital or outpatient center. You'll likely arrive early in the morning. Just before your biopsy you will:
The steps involved in liver biopsy vary according to the type:
After the procedureAfter the biopsy, you can expect to:
ResultsYour liver tissue goes to a laboratory to be examined by a doctor who specializes in diagnosing disease (pathologist). The pathologist will look for signs of disease and damage to the liver. Your biopsy report should come back from the pathology lab within a few days to a week. At a follow-up visit, your doctor will explain the results. You may be diagnosed with a liver disease, or your liver disease may be given a stage or grade number based on the severity — mild, moderate or severe. Your doctor will discuss what treatment, if any, you need. Clinical trialsExplore Mayo Clinic studies of tests and procedures to help prevent, detect, treat or manage conditions. Nov. 24, 2020 Can I lay on my left side after a liver biopsy?Patients will be asked to exhale and hold their breath while the needle is inserted and a liver sample is quickly withdrawn. Several samples may be collected, requiring multiple needle insertions. After the biopsy, patients must lie on their right side for up to 2 hours to reduce the risk of bleeding.
Which position is best after liver biopsy?After the biopsy, the doctor will place a bandage over the cut on your abdomen. You may be asked to lie on your right side after the biopsy, and you will need to remain lying down for a few hours. Health care professionals will typically check your vital signs link regularly for 2 to 4 hours after the procedure.
How should a patient lie after liver biopsy?Following the liver biopsy, you will be asked to lie on your right side, and a nurse will monitor your blood pressure and pulse periodically.
What side do you lay on during a liver biopsy?Percutaneous biopsy.
You'll lie on your back and position your right hand above your head on the table. Your doctor will apply a numbing medication to the area where the needle will be inserted. The doctor then makes a small incision near the bottom of your rib cage on your right side and inserts the biopsy needle.
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