Hepatologist Questions Hepatology

How long do you wait after a liver biopsy?

I am a 52 year old male who will have a liver biopsy. How long do you wait after a liver biopsy?

5 Answers

Twenty-four (24) to Forty eight (48) hours. Thank you.
This sort of biopsy is done in the outpatient setting. You will receive post-biopsy instructions from the providers who perform it. I would ask them if you would like to know before in regards to specifics.

RB Thomas, MD
Results on a liver biopsy take approximately 5-7 business days. It may be longer if additional studies are needed to make a diagnosis.
On the average one to two weeks. Sometimes longer.
Depends on the laboratory and on diagnosis. Usually, additional special stains and immunostains are needed. I would think that in the best case scenario on average at least a week. Clinical history should be provided on the pathology requisition to guide and expedite sign out.
Good luck.

Dr Pilavdzic