Liver biopsy is a procedure used to determine various types of liver diseases. It is a safe procedure. Complication rarely occurs (1 in 50,000 procedures)

Technique

A small tissue piece is obtained from the liver to perform a microscopic examination.

Indications

• Idiopathic cause resulting in an increased level of liver enzymes
• Staging of liver diseases such as chronic hepatitis B, autoimmune hepatitis, and Wilson disease
• Sampling of liver lesions