Evaluation of the Success Rate of Ultrasound-guided Transjugular Liver Biopsy (TJLB) and the Associated Complications.

INTRODUCTION: Transjugular liver biopsy (TJLB) is a diagnostic radiological intervention, applied to patients with contraindications to percutaneous or laparoscopic liver biopsy. The aim of this study was to determine the safety, effectiveness, complications, and pathological impact of TJLB.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 24 consecutive patients, undergoing TJLB at Imam Reza Hospital, affiliated to Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, from April 2010 to March 2011. The inclusion criteria were coagulopathy, thrombocytopenia, and ascites. TJLB was performed by a radiologist, and a guide wire was inserted in the right jugular vein. Right atrium and middle hepatic vein were catheterized, and then, Cook Quick-Core Biopsy Needle was used by ultrasound guidance. Data analysis was performed by SPSS version 16.

RESULTS: The sample size included 24 subjects (54% males and 46% females). Success rate of TJLB was reported as 87.5% and the intervention duration was 23.89±9.34 min. No complications were reported in 37.5% of the patients; however, pain in the right upper quadrant (33.3%), leakage of contrast substance into the liver capsule (4.2%), and diffuse abdominal pain (4.2%). In 83% of biopsies, suitable samples were obtained for histopathological diagnosis, and 13% of patients were excluded from the study. According to the results, the mean central port track (CPT) was 6.75 ± 2.95.

CONCLUSION: TJLB is a relatively effective and safe procedure for patients with contraindications to percutaneous liver biopsy.