Can a kidney biopsy be performed on an outpatient basis?

A kidney biopsy cannot be performed on an outpatient basis. After the biopsy the patient should be monitored for 24 hours. For the first 6 hours after the procedure, the patient should lie on his back on a sandbag to avoid bruising (haematomas).

If the biopsy is uncomplicated, the patient is usually discharged the following day. On the day after the biopsy, a check of the urine, the blood values and an ultrasound of the kidney will also take place. 14 days after the kidney biopsy, no heavy loads should be carried and no sports should be done

Results after a kidney biopsy

The biopsy is sent to pathology. After about 24 hours there is a preliminary result. The final result can take up to 10 days if special incisions have to be made.

In urgent cases a preliminary result can be available within 3 hours. The result of a kidney biopsy is especially important for further therapy planning. Depending on which incisions are made, the findings take different lengths of time.

As a rule, a result can be expected within 3-5 days. In many cases, preliminary results can be obtained within 24 hours. If special incisions are made, the final findings can take 10 to 14 days.

Risks and side effects of a biopsy

The greatest risk after a kidney biopsy is the risk of bleeding from the kidney. Therefore it is important to monitor the patient 24 hours after a kidney biopsy. This means that the pulse and blood pressure are measured regularly, the biopsy site is checked regularly and urine excretion is also monitored.

In addition, bed rest is provided to reduce the risk of secondary bleeding. The risk of secondary bleeding can also be minimized by placing a sandbag underneath the patient. Minor post-bleeding is usually manifested as bruising (haematomas).

A blood transfusion may be necessary in the event of more severe blood loss. Only in extremely rare cases does post-bleeding need to be treated surgically. It is extremely unlikely that a kidney has to be removed due to post-bleeding.

In 5% of patients, the urine turns red after a kidney biopsy. Often the red colouring is self-limiting and the urine becomes clear again without further measures. Otherwise an irrigation catheter is used.

Furthermore, the local anaesthetic may be intolerant. There are also general risks such as infections or injuries to surrounding structures, even with a kidney biopsy. However, the risks are minimized by sufficient skin disinfection and a puncture under ultrasound control.

A slight red coloration of the urine after a biopsy occurs in 5% of patients. It is important to make sure that the red colouring decreases and does not become stronger. Usually the red colouring stops of its own accord.

If the red colouring increases, the blood values should be checked and another ultrasound check should be performed to rule out secondary bleeding. If necessary, an irrigation catheter is applied. In rare cases blood transfusions may also be necessary.