The value of post-biopsy ultrasound in predicting complications after percutaneous renal biopsy of native kidneys.

Background: Clinically significant bleeding complications occur in >30% of patients undergoing percutaneous renal biopsy (PRB) of native kidneys and can be severe in up to 10% of patients. A noninvasive measure that would reliably predict which patients will do well with an uncomplicated post-biopsy course or which patients may be at risk of developing a clinically significant complication is in great demand.

Methods: PRB of native kidneys was performed in 162 adult patients from February 2002 through February 2007 using real-time ultrasound and automated needle.