Percutaneous liver biopsy: what is the current approach? Results of a questionnaire survey.

The technique of performing liver biopsy varies among physicians, even within the same practice. In an attempt to determine whether gastroenteroogists/hepatologists differ in their approach compared to radiologists, we surveyed a nearly equal number of physicians in the Washington, DC, USA, metropolitan area with respect to 26 variables. While the technique can vary considerably, relatively few differences were seen between the groups. Only about half of gastroenterologists and hepatologists use ultrasound guidance, a biopsy, gun, and conscious sedation; radiologists routinely used a biopsy gun and conscious sedation and rarely require an overnight stay.