https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28272160

Bolia R, Matta J, Malik R, Hardikar W.J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2017 Mar 7.

Abstract

Liver biopsy is a valuable tool. Even though outpatient liver biopsies are routinely performed in adults, there are no clear recommendations on its safety and feasibility in children. We reviewed the records of children who underwent a percutaneous liver biopsy at our institution between January 2005 and June 2015. 626 biopsies were performed on 497 patients (250 boys, median age 6 (0.2-19.3) years). Abnormal liver function tests for investigation 288(46%) was the most common indication. 30(4.8%) biopsies had complications, most common being sub-capsular hematoma 14/30 (46.7%). Complications were identified within 8 hours of the biopsy in all patients. Approach, needle-size or number of passes did not affect the complication rate. Bleeding-related complications were not related to the INR. Performing liver biopsies on an out-patient basis would have saved 60 beds/AU$ 80,000/year. This study suggests that if an observation period of 8 hours is instituted, outpatient liver biopsies can be performed safely in children