Transjugular liver biopsy: A prospective study in 43 patients with the quick-core biopsy needle

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and complication rate of the Quick-Core biopsy needle system compared with traditional transjugular biopsy needle systems. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 1994 and April 1995, 43 patients underwent transjugular liver biopsy with the Quick-Core system; 18-, 19-, and 20-gauge needles were used in 28, 13, and two patients, respectively. Histologic diagnoses, specimen dimensions, and adequacy of the biopsy sample were determined. Immediate and delayed complications were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 118 biopsy specimens were obtained with an average of 2.7 passes per patient. Biopsy was successful in 42 of 43 patients (98%); one specimen contained renal parenchyma. Of the specimens that contained liver tissue, 100% were adequate. Mean maximum sample lengths were 1.1 and 1.5 cm with the 18- and 19-gauge needles, respectively. The procedural complication rate of 2% was due to puncture of the liver capsule in one patient, but no clinical manifestations occurred. No delayed complications occurred in any patient. CONCLUSION: The Quick-Core biopsy system produces consistently satisfactory, reproducible specimen cores with a very low complication rate.