🧪 Kidney Biopsy (Renal Biopsy):

A kidney biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small piece of kidney tissue is removed for laboratory examination. It helps doctors diagnose the cause of kidney problems and determine the severity of kidney disease.

🩺 Why is it done?

A kidney biopsy is performed to:

• Identify the cause of blood or protein in the urine

• Diagnose kidney inflammation or autoimmune diseases (like lupus nephritis)

• Evaluate the extent of kidney damage

• Monitor a transplanted kidney

• Guide treatment decisions for kidney disease

🔍 How is it performed?

• The most common method is a percutaneous biopsy:

  • The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia.

  • A thin needle is inserted through the skin into the kidney, often using ultrasound or CT scan guidance.

  • A small tissue sample is collected.

In some cases, an open surgical biopsy may be needed.

⏱️ Duration & Recovery:

• The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.

• Patients are monitored for a few hours afterward for bleeding or complications.

• Rest is advised for 24–48 hours post-biopsy.