Kidney Biopsy Procedure and Overview
Learn about the kidney biopsy procedure, including why it's performed, how to prepare, and what to expect during and after the process for an accurate diagnosis.
If your doctor has recommended a kidney biopsy, you may have questions or concerns about the procedure. This guide will help you understand what a kidney biopsy is, why it’s done, what to expect, and how to prepare for it.
What Is a Kidney Biopsy?
A kidney biopsy is a medical procedure where a small piece of kidney tissue is removed and examined under a microscope. This helps doctors diagnose kidney diseases, determine the severity of damage, and plan the best treatment.
Why Is a Kidney Biopsy Done?
Your doctor may suggest a kidney biopsy if:
• You have blood or protein in your urine.
• Your kidney function is declining rapidly.
• You have unexplained kidney failure.
• There are signs of kidney disease in imaging tests.
• A kidney transplant is not working properly.
Types of Kidney Biopsy
There are two main types:
1. Percutaneous (Needle) Biopsy – The most common type, where a thin needle is inserted through the skin into the kidney to collect tissue.
2. Open Biopsy – Rarely used, this involves a small surgical incision to remove kidney tissue (usually done if a needle biopsy isn’t possible).
What to Expect During the Procedure?
Before the Biopsy
• Your doctor will review your medical history and medications.
• You may need blood tests to check for bleeding risks.
• Avoid bloodthinning medications (like aspirin) for a few days before the procedure.
• You’ll be asked to fast for a few hours before the biopsy.
Consult a General Physician
During the Biopsy
• You’ll lie on your stomach or side, and the area will be cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia.
• Using ultrasound or CT guidance, the doctor inserts a thin needle to take a small tissue sample.
• You may feel slight pressure but shouldn’t experience severe pain.
• The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes.
After the Biopsy
• You’ll need to rest for several hours to prevent bleeding.
• Your blood pressure and urine will be monitored.
• You may have mild soreness at the biopsy site.
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 1–2 weeks.
Possible Risks and Complications
Kidney biopsies are generally safe, but some risks include:
• Bleeding (most common)
• Pain at the biopsy site
• Infection (rare)
• Blood in urine (usually temporary)
Serious complications are uncommon, but contact your doctor if you experience:
• Severe pain
• Heavy bleeding
• Fever or chills
• Difficulty urinating
Recovery and FollowUp
• Most people go home the same day.
• Drink plenty of water to help flush out any blood in the urine.
• Avoid intense exercise for at least a week.
• Your doctor will discuss biopsy results in a followup visit (usually within a few days to a week).
When to Seek Medical Help?
Call your doctor immediately if you notice:
• Persistent bleeding
• Severe pain in the back or abdomen
• High fever
• Difficulty passing urine
Final Thoughts
A kidney biopsy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and managing kidney diseases. While the idea of a biopsy may seem scary, the procedure is usually quick and safe. If your doctor has recommended one, it’s because they need more information to provide the best care for your kidney health.
Need Help?
If you have concerns about your kidney health or need to schedule a biopsy, Apollo 24|7 offers expert consultations and diagnostic services. Book an appointment today to get the right care for your kidneys.
Consult a General Physician
Consult a General Physician
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. D Bhanu Prakash
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Consult a General Physician
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. D Bhanu Prakash
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
