A small needle is introduced into the liver to extract a small piece of tissue. This tissue is sent to the lab for pathology. Patients are sedated during the procedure and most feel little to no pain and often don’t remember the actual procedure itself.
What to Expect: During the Procedure
An IV will be started, usually in the arm or hand, to administer the sedating medicine. You will lie on your back and you will be asked to hold your breath during the actual biopsy itself. It only takes approximately 5-10 seconds to obtain the tissue sample and then you can breathe normally. A small dressing will be applied to the area and you will placed on your right side for 2 hours. After 2 hours you will be allowed to lie on your back and you will be monitored for another 2 hours. Once that time has passed, and you are stable and comfortable, you will be ready to be discharged home.
How to Prepare
You should avoid eating anything after midnight the night before your procedure. You can drink up to 8 ounces of clear liquid 6 hours before your procedure, but nothing to drink at 6 hours prior to your scheduled procedure time. You MUST have a responsible friend or family member to drive you home because of the sedation. Medication restrictions vary from patient to patient. You should receive detailed instructions from your doctor regarding your personal medication regimen prior to the procedure.
We strive to provide first-class services in a safe, welcoming environment; one in which we would be happy to treat our own families. We provide the above services in thea the areas of San Diego, Chula Vista, and Tijuana.