Biopsy: Who should perform it?

[Verdugo]

Hi All,

I finally got the prescription/order for a biopsy that my hepatologist was resistant on giving me.  I'm a Geno 2, and my doctor believes I should just treat, treat, treat and ask no questions.  Anyway, he focused on the risks of the procedure in an effort to discourage me, but as I want to wait to treat (if I can), then I felt I needed to get a bx.  Anyway, my quesiton is this:  my hepatologist will not be performing the biopsy.  Is this common?  Should I find a doctor who will do the procedure himself?

Thanks,
Verdugo.

[EarthMan]

I had the Ultrasound Guided Biopsy as well. I requested 1 tablet of .05mg Xanax to take 2 hours before procedure and also requested an IV injection for Conscious Sedation just prior to having the procedure performed. This way you don't have all of the Anxiety and pain from the local numming shot. My biopsy was performed by a Radiologist and even had a couple of students in there telling them what to do, but he actually did the Punching of the guided needle. Layed in bed for 4 hours after that before being released and felt great the whole time. I didn't even feel the procedure. Was a little sore in that area after the meds wore off but no big deal. I've learned to ask for things they will give you to make you more comfortable, but won't "unless you ask"
Hope all goes well.

[FlGuy]

The thought is there , but not the requisite temptation - not in the least.  So, onward and no looking back.

[mremeet]

#1 - No, repeat NOOO student doctors or interns are to perform the procedure. Only a super experienced, super smooth operator should have his or her hands on that sampling needle (which looks a bit like a caulk gun, incidentally). It has this pistol grip thing and a big trigger that makes this big SNAP! sound. Oh it's a thing of beauty alright. So don't forget, if some baby faced doctor hovers over you biting his lower lip saying something like "does it go here?" GET THE F*CK OUT - MAKE A BREAK FOR IT BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE.

#2 - Take, repeat TAKE significant premeds which will numb the pain and/or reduce anxiety. Don't let any asshat doctor, nurse or tech tell you "Oh this won't hurt a bit, you won't need any meds - just sit veeeeeery still."  DEMAND good premeds and have someone there with you to drive you home at the conclusion of the procedure.

If you follow these guidelines, you should be aiggghtt. Don't let 'em swissinate your liver dude.

[frijole]

Get off that Drusano buzz, man.  It's just a pipe dream!!!!!!!

[dlr2007]

Hi- My bx was done 12 years ago by my gastro. I love him- he's been practicing for a long time and he's done tons of bx's. I would only trust him to do it. I'm getting another bx next month by him. I'm wondering if it will be ultrasound guided. I don't care really- I just want some kick-@ss pain meds- lol.
  Btw, it's good to see some of my favorite members on here today. There are people here that I've seen since Day 1 on this forum, and they always make me smile- and have some great advice! Good luck to all!
-Dee

[FlGuy]

This Friday I complete 38 weeks, of which 36 have been undetected.  I'm expereincing the phenomenon known as the 'Drusano Buzz', as I expected.  But since it's tolerable and there will be  only 8 to go, I can get through it. Work is a tougher go these days, seem to work longer and getting less done - story of my life.