What is involved in a Kidney Biopsy?
Doctors can tell what is gong on in the kidney by removing a small fragment with a needle and looking at it under the microscope (this is called a kidney biopsy). The procedure to take the biopsy is done in the X-ray department and takes about 20 minutes. In terms of discomfort, most people report it is about the same as a visit to the dentist. Doctors are always cautious about recommending a kidney biopsy because there is a small risk of bleeding afterwards. The risk of serious bleeding is less than 1 in 1500 for someone with normal sized kidneys, normal blood pressure and normal kidney function. To minimise the risk of bleeding, the blood is checked in the laboratory to make sure it clots properly, and you will be rested in bed after a biopsy. If you have a past history of unusual bleeding after operations or dental extractions, you should tell us before the biopsy. Vigorous activity should not be performed for 4 days after a biopsy, or longer if there are any problems. Click here fo
