It depends on the facilities policies and procedures. But I can tell you what we do at work.

Rock up at a pre-appointed time to be admitted. Be asked about fasting, allergies etc. Have any necessary bloods taken, get changed. Wait in waiting room and then go to imaging.

In imaging they will use the ultrasound to find the liver and the right spot they want to biopsy. I'll stop there but if you want to know more, let me know.

Afterwards, you'll have a clear dressing (tegaderm) over the site. Sometimes they put a small wad of gauze as well. You will have to lie flat (usually on your back) for a period of time. The time depends on the facility. Our protocol is 4 hours. Again, depending on the facility, you will have to stay on the trolley/bed until about 15-30 minutes before you go home.

You may get some left shoulder tip pain - this is considered to be common although I can count on 1 hand how many patients I've had with that. The most common complaint is discomfort breathing in.

At my hospital, we say that you must have someone stay with you over night, can not drive for 48 hours, can not operate machinery for 48 hours, drink alcohol for 24 hours.

Hope that helps. Let me know if you have any questions.

MG