Expert Liver Biopsy in Aurangabad

Are you experiencing symptoms of liver disease and need a liver biopsy in Aurangabad? Dr. Ashish R. Gandhi, a highly qualified Gastroenterologist with extensive experience, can provide you with a safe and accurate diagnosis. Liver biopsy is a crucial step in identifying liver conditions and determining the best course of treatment. Dr. Gandhi uses advanced techniques and prioritizes patient comfort throughout the procedure.

Liver Biopsy Procedures and Steps at Gandhi Hospital, Aurangabad

Dr. Ashish Gandhi, a gastroenterologist at Gandhi Hospital in Aurangabad, may recommend a liver biopsy to diagnose or assess the severity of liver conditions. Unlike a FibroScan®, which is a non-invasive test, a liver biopsy is an invasive procedure that extracts a small tissue sample from the liver for analysis.

There are three main types of liver biopsies, each with its own approach:

1. Percutaneous Liver Biopsy (Most Common)

• A needle is inserted through your abdomen and into the liver to collect a tissue sample.
• A small incision is made near your ribs, and the doctor guides the needle through it to reach the liver.
• This is the most common type of liver biopsy.

2. Transjugular Liver Biopsy (Special Cases)

• This procedure involves numbing the side of your neck, making an incision, and inserting a tube into the jugular vein.
• The tube is advanced until it reaches the hepatic vein in the liver.
• A contrast dye is injected to help visualize the vein with X-rays.
• Once the vein is located, the doctor uses the tube to insert a needle and collect the tissue sample.

3. Laparoscopic Liver Biopsy (Less Common)

• The doctor makes a small incision in your abdomen and inserts a laparoscope (a thin camera) along with biopsy tools.
• Using the camera view as a guide, the doctor collects the tissue sample with the tools.

Preparing for a Liver Biopsy at Gandhi Hospital

Before your liver biopsy, Dr. Gandhi will discuss any medications you’re taking and advise you to stop certain ones if necessary. Blood tests may be needed to check your blood clotting time.

Here’s a general overview of the preparation and procedure:

• An intravenous (IV) line will be placed for medication administration.
• You may receive sedation to promote relaxation during the procedure.
• You’ll lie on your back on the table.
• Dr. Gandhi will perform the chosen biopsy technique.
• After the procedure, you’ll rest for observation for a few hours until the sedative effects wear off.
• Once you’re stable, someone can drive you home.

Liver Biopsy Results and Purpose

The tissue sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. Results won’t be available immediately. Dr. Gandhi will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the findings and recommend a treatment plan based on the diagnosis.

Reasons for a Liver Biopsy:

• Staging liver disease: To determine the severity of existing liver damage.
• Diagnosing liver damage: When blood tests are inconclusive.
• Guiding treatment decisions: To choose the most appropriate treatment course.
• Monitoring treatment effectiveness: To assess how well a treatment is working.
• Investigating abnormal liver inflammation: To understand the cause of unexplained inflammation.

Liver Biopsy Complications and Risks

While liver biopsies are generally safe, there are potential complications, though uncommon. These include:

• Internal bleeding
• Mild pain at the biopsy site (expected for several hours)
• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung) – if the needle punctures the chest cavity

Contact Dr. Ashish Gandhi Immediately if You Experience:

• Fever
• Vomiting
• Blood in stool
• Abdominal bloating
• Dizziness