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A survey of current liver biopsy practice patterns
Andrew J Muir1, James F Trotter
1Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA. muir0002@mc.duke.edu
Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology
|June 25, 2002
Summary
Many clinicians avoid liver biopsies due to risks and low pay, impacting patient care. Ultrasound use is increasing, but training may be needed to boost clinician confidence in performing liver biopsies.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Practice Patterns
Background:
- The hepatitis C epidemic has increased hepatology within gastroenterology.
- Clinicians express concerns about the risks associated with percutaneous liver biopsy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey clinicians on their current practices and attitudes towards liver biopsy.
- To identify reasons why some clinicians do not perform liver biopsies.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was distributed to members of the Duke University Digestive Epidemiological Studies Consortium.
- The survey focused on liver biopsy practices, including reasons for not performing the procedure and the use of imaging guidance.
Main Results:
- A significant proportion of physicians (29.5%) reported not performing liver biopsies.
- Primary reasons for not performing biopsies included perceived risks (72.7%), low reimbursement (66.7%), and logistical challenges (45.4%).
- Ultrasound guidance during liver biopsy is increasingly common, with 53.2% of procedures performed without it and 46.8% with some form of ultrasound marking.
Conclusions:
- A notable percentage of clinicians refrain from performing liver biopsies due to procedural risks and inadequate reimbursement.
- The integration of ultrasound in liver biopsy procedures is becoming more prevalent.
- Enhanced training programs may be required to improve clinician comfort and proficiency with liver biopsy techniques.