How painful is a liver biopsy and what are the risks associated with having one !
Question:
How painful is a liver biopsy and what are the risks associated with having one done? Will I be sedated?
I've had a endometrial biopsy in my GYN's offive and it was horrible. I realize this is like comparing apples to oranges but before I agree to one I would like to know if the pain will be too severe during and after. I am a real coward at 66 years old.
Answers:
Hi Margie. I've had 4 liver biopsies! I had three different ones the first time I went in for just 1.
My last one I had I offered to have one because not many offer a follow up biopsy after treating the liver.
So, they really aren't all that bad. It feels more like pressure. It might leave a pinching type pain behind.
The doctor will disinfect the area, he will then numb the layers of skin. The biopsy needle is fairly small. They will have you hold your breath, then as your told to exhale, the doctor will quickly insert the biopsy needle. It happens so fast that just as you think it's going to hurt really bad, its over with. Like I said, it's more pressure than anything.
They will then have you lie on your side for a couple hours. (i noticed laying on my back was more helpful.
Good luck to you!