Procedure
Kidney (Renal) Biopsy
A Renal or Kidney Biopsy involves taking one or more very small kidney tissue samples so that they can be examined under a microscope for evidence of kidney damage or disease.
Renal Biopsy and Graft Biopsy are available through nephrology care at Triveni.
Why may a Kidney Biopsy be advised?
A kidney biopsy may be considered when blood and urine tests alone do not provide enough information, including selected cases involving persistent blood or protein in urine, impaired kidney function or suspected kidney inflammation/scarring. It can also be used to investigate dysfunction of a transplanted kidney.
Preparation
Preparation commonly includes review of:
- medicines and supplements
- bleeding risk
- blood pressure
- allergies
- relevant blood/imaging tests
Some patients may be instructed to fast or modify medicines, but those instructions must come from the medical team.
Fasting or medicine changes, if needed, must follow instructions from the medical team.
What may happen during the procedure?
A common form of kidney biopsy is percutaneous biopsy, in which imaging—often ultrasound—is used to guide a biopsy needle into the kidney to obtain tissue.
The exact imaging or sedation approach depends on the individual procedure and clinic protocol.
FAQ
Does high creatinine automatically require a Kidney Biopsy?
No. Kidney Biopsy is used selectively when additional tissue information may help diagnosis or management.
Should blood thinners be stopped before biopsy?
Patients must discuss medicines with the medical team. Do not stop medication independently.