Liver biopsy is generally a safe procedure when performed by a specialist physician. However, like any medical procedure, it carries a small degree of inherent risks. Patients may experience pain in the rib area and right shoulder post-biopsy. Bleeding is another potential complication, though it is considered a low risk. Infrequently, there is a risk of infection. Very rarely, an internal organ such as the gallbladder may be inadvertently damaged. Pre-procedure ultrasound guidance significantly minimizes these risks.
If a transjugular biopsy is performed, a hematoma (collection of blood) may form at the catheter insertion site, leading to localized pain. Occasionally, this specific procedure can affect nerves, potentially resulting in temporary effects such as a drooping eyelid (ptosis).