Kidney Biopsy is a minor surgical procedure using a very small needle to collect a kidney tissue sample to assist in diagnosis and treatment indications such as nephritis, which presents with symptoms of swelling, blood in urine, and kidney failure or proteinuria, or unexplained kidney failure. The procedure involves injecting anesthesia and performing an ultrasound simultaneously with the tissue collection.
The tissue sample obtained is very small, generally no wider than 2 millimeters and about 1 centimeter long. Afterward, the doctor will send the tissue for pathological examination, staining, and determining the cause of kidney disease.
Indications for Kidney Biopsy
- To investigate the cause of proteinuria or hematuria
- To diagnose unexplained chronic kidney disease
- To assess nephritis or acute kidney failure unresponsive to treatment
- To monitor the outcome of kidney transplantation
Contraindications for Kidney Biopsy include
- Infection of the skin or tissue at the needle insertion site
- Urinary tract infection
- Uncooperative patients
- Abnormal kidney anatomy such as horseshoe kidney, kidney cyst, hydronephrosis requires consultation with a doctor every time
Preparation before Kidney Biopsy is an important step to reduce the risk of complications and maximize safety during the procedure. Generally, patients should prepare according to the doctor’s instructions as follows:
- Control blood pressure to be less than 140/80 mmHg
- Stop antiplatelet drugs at least 7 days (aspirin) and stop anticoagulants (warfarin) 3 days if no contraindications
- Blood tests to check platelet count and blood coagulation
Possible Complications
- Bleeding around the kidney may occur from ruptured capillaries during the biopsy. Some patients may experience flank pain, low blood pressure, or pallor
- Temporary hematuria is most common within 1–2 days after the procedure, usually mild and resolves spontaneously
- Pain at the biopsy site is usually temporary and can be relieved with pain medication
Kidney biopsy is one of the methods that helps doctors diagnose kidney disease more accurately. If your doctor recommends this procedure, it means it is necessary and beneficial for your long-term treatment plan.
Dr. Methinee Sutthiwaikit recommends that before undergoing a kidney biopsy, patients should understand the principles, procedures, precautions, and prepare adequately for safety and to reduce anxiety.
If you have any questions or want to discuss this procedure further, you can consult a kidney specialist at Phyathai 2 Hospital. We are ready to care for you attentively at every step for strong and safe kidney health.
Dr. Methinee Sutthiwaikit
Kidney Specialist
Dialysis Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
