Percutaneous Kidney Biopsy

Also known as: percutaneous renal biopsy, kidney biopsy, renal biopsy

What is percutaneous kidney biopsy?

A biopsy is a medical procedure in which health care professionals take a sample of tissue from the body and examine it for signs of disease or damage. In the case of a percutaneous kidney biopsy, a thin needle is inserted through the skin into the kidney and used to collect a sample of kidney tissue for analysis. This the most common type of kidney biopsy.

What happens during the procedure?

A percutaneous kidney biopsy is a simple procedure that usually takes less than an hour. Most people will lie face down for the procedure, though some people may be positioned a different way. Sedation or anesthesia is used, and an ultrasound machine is typically used to guide the needle inside your body. There is no incision, and no stitches are needed afterward.

Is any special preparation needed?

You may need to stop eating, drinking or taking certain medications (including blood thinners and NSAIDS like aspirin and ibuprofen) prior to a percutaneous kidney biopsy. You will remain in the hospital overnight for observation and will have exercise restrictions for at least 2 weeks afterward. Follow your health care provider’s instructions closely.

What are the risk factors?

Bleeding, pain and infection are risk factors of a percutaneous kidney biopsy, though these are rare. The procedure is usually well-tolerated with a short recovery period.

---

Reviewed by: Nicole Christin, MD

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:54 PM