Safety of blind liver biopsy.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to observe the safety of blind liver biopsy in children. METHODS: One hundred fifteen consecutive liver biopsies in hospitalized children were evaluated retrospectively. Using a standard percussion technique biopsy sites were chosen and through intercostal space blind liver biopsies were performed by TruCut biopsy needle. RESULTS: The first biopsy sample was considered macroscopically adequate in 94.8% of cases. A definitive histological diagnosis was possible in 99.1% of cases. Sixty nine children were more than 5 years of age and of these 8 (11.6%) complained of pain at the biopsy site. External hemorrhage from the biopsy site was seen in 1 (0.9%) case but no sign of internal hemorrhage was detected during the 24 hours follow up period. No child died following the procedure. CONCLUSION: Blind liver biopsy in the studied hospitalized children was found to be a safe procedure.