What patient preparation is necessary prior to percutaneous biopsy?
Percutaneous biopsy requires special attention to coagulation indices. While there are varying opinions about the safe values of these indices, which may depend upon the particular target lesion and organ to be sampled along with local practices, the following parameters can serve as a general guide:
- • Platelet count >50,000/mm 3 (values between 50,000 and 100,000/mm 3 are used).
- • International normalized ratio (INR) <1.4.
- • Normal prothrombin time (PT) and partial thromboplastin time (PTT).
- • Cessation of anticoagulants to attain normal indices.
- • Cessation of antiplatelet agents such as aspirin may also be required.
If sedation is anticipated, patients should remain NPO for 4 to 6 hours prior to the procedure.
