How to Prepare for a Liver Biopsy in NJ

The Day Before Your Liver Biopsy in NJ

The day before your liver biopsy, please contact the office nurse to discuss how you should take your medications and at what time you should take them. You should also inform your ordering physician if you are taking any blood thinners such as Aspirin, Coumadin, Plavix, etc., as these medications may need to be stopped prior to the liver biopsy. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your appointment. 

No more than 5 days prior to your procedure, you should have the following bloodwork done:

  • CBC with platelets
  • PT
  • PTT
  • INR

The Day of Your Scheduled Liver Biopsy in NJ

Please plan to be at our office for around 4 hours on the day of your appointment. Procedure times can vary depending on individual circumstances. You will need to arrange for someone 18 years or older to transport you to and from the procedure. Cabs or public transportation are not permitted unless a responsible adult accompanies you. What you can expect during your liver biopsy will depend on the type of liver biopsy you are undergoing. The most common type of liver biopsy is a percutaneous biopsy, during which a needle is inserted through a small incision near the bottom of the rib cage. Your doctor will inform you on what exactly you can expect during and after your liver biopsy in NJ.

After Your Liver Biopsy in NJ

After your liver biopsy at DHC, you should not plan to drive, work, or perform any strenuous activities for 24 hours. Some soreness where the needle was inserted is common and can last up to a week. You should not lift anything heavier than a gallon of milk for 14 days after the procedure.

Recent Blogs

Learn more about all things digestive health and wellness by checking out our recent gastroenterology blogs.

Closeup of female hand with IV drip infusion for Crohn's disease
December 10, 2024
Infusion Therapy for Crohn’s Disease: A Guide to Treatment, Benefits, and What to Expect

Infusion therapy has become a vital treatment option for individuals with Crohn’s disease, offering relief when traditional medications may fall short. This method delivers medication directly into the bloodstream, providing quicker and more targeted effects to help manage inflammation, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.  For those with moderate to severe Crohn’s disease, infusion […]

October 27, 2024
Effective Relief for Ulcerative Colitis: The Role of IV Infusion Therapy

The Advancement of Ulcerative Colitis Treatment Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the lining of the colon and rectum. Those diagnosed with UC often experience flare-ups that can significantly impact their quality of life. Fortunately, advancements in medical treatment have made managing this condition more achievable. One option is […]

Diverticular disease 2
July 13, 2023
Diverticular Disease & Diverticulitis: What You Need to Know

Diverticular disease and diverticulitis are related digestive health conditions that affect the large intestine (colon). With diverticular disease, small, bulging pockets develop on the lining of the colon. When these pockets become inflamed or infected, the condition is called diverticulitis. They are very common – especially after age 40 – and rarely cause problems. At […]

Liver Biopsy at Digestive Healthcare Center

At Digestive Healthcare Center, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to all of our patients. We diagnose and treat a wide range of digestive health conditions to help patients live their healthiest and most comfortable lives, and we want to help patients get a more clear picture of their liver health. Once your liver biopsy is complete, we will discuss next steps with you and any additional actions that need to be taken. Patients can visit our offices in Hillsborough and Somerville for access to the gastroenterological procedures and tests we offer in NJ. You can also schedule a virtual telemedicine appointment to speak with one of our specialists from the comfort of your home! To learn more about digestive health care in NJ at DHC or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today!