What is the recommended post kidney biopsy care?
Immediately after the kidney biopsy, the patient is placed on bedrest.
The vital signs are closely monitored, and repeat labs are obtained at various points post-biopsy to monitor for bleeding and other complications. Urine is monitored for gross hematuria.
In carefully selected patients, percutaneous biopsy of the kidney is being performed with increased frequency as an outpatient procedure.
Individuals who are free of pain at the biopsy site have clear urine, stable hematocrit, and no hematoma on 1 hour post-ultrasound imaging could be discharged safely the same day.
In a prospective study of over 1000 percutaneous kidney biopsies with real-time ultrasound guidance, post-biopsy observation of less than 8 hours was shown to miss 28% of complications, while 89% of major complications were identified by 24 hours.
Although the timing of discharge post-kidney biopsy remains center- and nephrologist-dependent, an observation period of at least 6 hours and ideally 12 to 24 hours is recommended.
Patients are instructed to avoid heavy exercise and any blood thinners (including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents) for 10 to 14 days after the kidney biopsy.
