Transjugular liver biopsy: a review of 200 biopsies.
Transjugular liver biopsy was performed in 200 patients for whom percutaneous biopsy was contraindicated because of coagulation disorders (36%), ascites (32%) or for the work-up of portal hypertension (32%). An adequate biopsy allowing a histological diagnosis was obtained in 155 patients (77%). The biopsy was inadequate in 13 patients (6.5%). In 32 patients (16%) the biopsy failed. Complications occurred in 18 patients (9%). Twelve (6%) patients developed liver capsule perforations which were immediately embolized without complication. Inadvertent carotid artery puncture and supraventricular tachycardias occurred in three patients each. Transjugular liver biopsy is a valuable technique which provides information which would otherwise be unavailable in those patients for whom percutaneous biopsy is considered unsafe.
Corr
P
P
Department of Radiology, Groote Schuur Hospital/University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa.
Beningfield
S J
SJ
Davey
N
N
D001201:Ascites / Q000150:complications; D001707:Biopsy, Needle / Q000379:methods*; D001778:Blood Coagulation Disorders / Q000150:complications; D002908:Chronic Disease; D000075202:Contraindications; D006801:Humans; D007601:Jugular Veins; D008099:Liver / Q000473:pathology*; D008107:Liver Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000473:pathology*