Background: The need for liver biopsy is increasing with the increasing availability of treatments for liver disease, in particular interferon. For this reason the procedure must be efficient and economical, as well as safe.
Aims: Firstly to assess the safety of outpatient liver biopsy when performed with ultrasound guidance and the 'Biopty' gun. Secondly, to compare the cost of an outpatient and inpatient procedure.
Methods: Two hundred and fifty consecutive liver biopsies performed over a two year period at St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne were reviewed retrospectively. Indications, histological findings and complications were recorded.
Results: Seventy per cent of the biopsies were performed as an outpatient procedure. There were no major complications. Four patients experienced prolonged pain post biopsy. The average cost for an outpatient biopsy was $351, the cost of an inpatient (overnight stay) was $690.
Conclusion: Outpatient liver biopsy is safe and cost effective, with minor complications in 1.6%. The routine use of ultrasound guidance and the Biopty gun is likely to contribute to these favourable results.