Renal (Kidney) Biopsy

A kidney biopsy involves taking one or more tiny pieces (samples) of your kidney to observe them under special microscopes. The biopsy sample may be taken in one of two ways:

Percutaneous (through the skin) biopsy: This means, a needle placed through the skin that lies over the kidney and guided to the right place in the kidney, usually with the aid of ultrasound.

Open Biopsy: Here, the kidney sample is taken directly from the kidney during surgery. Then it will be checked for any signs of diseases.

The reasons for doing a kidney biopsy

Some kidney issues can often be found with blood and urine tests, a sonogram (an image made by ultrasound) or other x-rays. Specific reasons to do a kidney biopsy include:

• Presence of blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Abnormal blood test results
• Acute or chronic kidney disease
• Nephrotic syndrome and glomerular disease (which generally happens when the filtering units of the kidney are damaged)

As a patient, make sure you are well aware of the benefits, and any risks associated with a kidney biopsy. For an accurate information, consult the experts at Fortis International Hospitals as it is known to provide one of the finest renal biopsy treatments in India.

What are the possible risks of kidney biopsy?

The risks of kidney biopsy are very minimal, but they should be discussed prior with the healthcare provider. Complications may occur despite taking every kind of precaution to prevent them. A blood transfusion may be needed if serious bleeding occurs.

How is the biopsy done?

A kidney biopsy usually takes place in a hospital. An overnight stay may be needed to keep you under observation. You may be awake with only light sedation, or asleep under general anesthesia. If the biopsy is done on a transplanted kidney, you’ll be lying on your back.

Things to keep in mind

Before the biopsy:

• Make sure to consult with your health care provider to make sure you understand the need for a biopsy, the risks and the benefits.
• Tell your doctor if you are prone to any kind of allergies
• Avoid blood thinning medications and supplements
• Avoid food and fluid for eight hours before the test

After the biopsy:

• Follow your doctor’s instructions
• Have a good bed rest for 12-24 hours
• Avoid blood thinning medications
• Report any of the following problems, such as:
• Blood in the urine for more than 24 hours after the biopsy
• Unable to pass urine
• Fever
• Feeling dizzy

Backed by the most efficient surgeons, we, at Fortis International Hospitals have proved over the years to be one of the best Kidney cancer treatments in Bangalore.