Kidney biopsy expert Nagpur
Kidney Biopsy
A kidney biopsy, also known as a renal biopsy, is a medical procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is extracted for microscopic examination. This diagnostic test helps identify kidney diseases, assess damage severity, and guide treatment decisions.Kidney biopsies are performed when non-invasive tests (blood tests, urine tests, imaging) fail to provide a definitive diagnosis.
Types of Kidney Biopsy
1. Percutaneous (Needle) Kidney Biopsy
- The most common method.
- Performed under local anesthesia.
- Guided by ultrasound or CT imaging for precision.
- A thin needle is inserted through the skin into the kidney to extract tissue.
2. Open Kidney Biopsy (Surgical Biopsy)
- Rarely performed; used when percutaneous biopsy is risky.
- Requires general anesthesia.
- A surgeon makes a small incision to directly access the kidney.
3. Transjugular Kidney Biopsy
- Used for high-risk patients (e.g., bleeding disorders, obesity).
- A catheter is threaded through the jugular vein to the kidney.
Indications for Kidney Biopsy
- Unexplained kidney dysfunction (abnormal creatinine, proteinuria, hematuria).
- Nephrotic syndrome (severe protein loss in urine).
- Glomerular diseases (suspected glomerulonephritis).
- Systemic diseases affecting kidneys (lupus, diabetes, vasculitis).
- Kidney transplant rejection monitoring.
- Unexplained acute kidney injury (AKI).
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Bleeding disorders (low platelets, anticoagulant use).
- Single functioning kidney (relative contraindication).
- Severe kidney infection or hydronephrosis.
- Uncooperative patients (risk of movement during procedure).
Pre-Procedure Preparation
- Blood tests (check clotting function, hemoglobin, platelets).
- Imaging (ultrasound/CT to locate kidneys).
- Medication review (stop blood thinners like aspirin, warfarin).
- Fasting (4-8 hours before the procedure).
- Informed consent (explanation of risks and benefits).
Pre-Procedure Preparation
- Positioning: The patient lies face down with a pillow under the abdomen.
- Local anesthesia: Numbing medication is injected near the kidney.
- Needle insertion: A biopsy needle is guided into the kidney using imaging.
- Tissue extraction: A quick “click” sound indicates sample collection.
- Pressure application: A bandage is applied to prevent bleeding.
Post-Procedure Care
- Bed rest for 6-12 hours to prevent bleeding.
- Monitoring vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate).
- Urine tests to check for blood (common but usually mild).
- Pain management (mild discomfort is normal).
- Avoid strenuous activity for 1-2 weeks.
Risks and Complications
- Bleeding (most common; severe hemorrhage occurs in <1% of cases).
- Pain (usually mild, at the biopsy site).
- Infection (rare, but requires antibiotics if it occurs).
- Arteriovenous fistula (abnormal blood vessel connection).
- Pneumothorax (if the needle accidentally punctures the lung).
Interpreting Kidney Biopsy Results
- Glomerular diseases (IgA nephropathy, membranous nephropathy).
- Tubulointerstitial diseases (acute tubular necrosis, interstitial nephritis).
- Vascular diseases (vasculitis, thrombotic microangiopathy).
- Infections or malignancies.
Preventive Measures for Kidney Health
- Stay Hydrated – Drink 3-4 liters of water daily
- Control Blood Sugar & Pressure – Prevents CKD
- Avoid Excessive Painkillers – Can damage kidneys
- Eat a Balanced Diet – Low salt, high fiber Contact Us
Conclusion
Kidney specialists (nephrologists) play a vital role in diagnosing and treating kidney diseases. Early detection and proper management can prevent kidney failure and improve quality of life. If you experience kidney-related symptoms, consult a nephrologist promptly. Book Appointment