Renal biopsy Health Article

Definition

A renal biopsy is the removal of a small piece of kidney tissue for laboratory examination.

Alternative Names

Kidney biopsy; Biopsy - kidney

How the test is performed

There are many ways to perform a kidney biopsy. The most common uses ultrasound guidance. This means the doctor uses an ultrasound image to locate the proper area in your kidney. The biopsy is done in the hospital, usually in the radiology suite. Your doctor will go over the procedure, benefits, and risks in great detail.

You will lie face down for at least 20 - 30 minutes. A towel may be placed under your upper abdomen so you remain in the correct position. Ultrasound will be used to find the proper biopsy site. The health care provider will then apply local numbing medicine (anesthetic) to the skin near the area.

The health care provider makes a tiny cut in the skin and inserts a biopsy needle into the area and to the surface of the kidney. You will be asked to take and hold a deep breath as the needle is introduced into the kidney. If the health care provider is not using direct ultrasound guidance, you may be asked to take deep breaths to verify the needle is in place.

The biopsy needle is then withdrawn, and pressure is applied to the biopsy site to stop the bleeding. The needle may need to be inserted again (possibly several times) before enough tissue is collected. After the procedure, a bandage is applied to the biopsy site.

You will need to stay in bed for 6 - 8 hours after the procedure and will remain in the hospital for a day. The health care team will give you pain medicines and fluids by mouth or a vein. Your urine will be checked for excessive bleeding. (A little bleeding usually occurs.) Blood counts and vital signs are monitored.

Kidney biopsies may also be done using CT scan guidance. Under some circumstances, the biopsy may be performed by running the biopsy catheter through one of the neck veins -- this is called a transjugular biopsy.