Question:
Are liver biopsies performed routinely with WLS?

If so, I want to know the purpose of this. My liver enzymes are and always have been within a normal range.    — Jess R. (posted on April 19, 2002)

April 19, 2002
That is sooo wierd. When I went in for surgery I signed something for a "study" for the doc. to biopsy my liver. It was optional. My cousin had the same surgeon (he is not the one who conducted the study) and she chose not to have it done. I thing they are trying to link obesity and the liver in some way. Hope this helps you.
   — Cinna G.

April 19, 2002
I have the same surgeon as Cinda, and he does ask his patients to be a part of the study. Mine came back normal.
   — Wendy H.

April 19, 2002
I have high liver enzymes as well but the reason my doc did my biopsy of the liver during surgery was because I contacted Hepatitis C 10-years ago and they wanted to make sure it had remained inactive. Sometimes, if the Hep. C had turned active, it can cause high liver enzymes as well. The reason I wanted it done during surgery is so that I wouldn't have to endure the pain of a biopsy apart from this procedure.
   — Lisa J.

April 19, 2002
Hi, I was informed that this type of test was done to see how big our liver is.. Since we are overweight.. The liver usual is big. They use a needle as if there were taking blood from our arm. The day I had sugery I did not sign because I was afraid of that one line.. that read liver Biopsy. Then My Doctor explained. I heard it was usual while surgery. Good Luck!
   — Lucy B.

April 19, 2002
My surgeon routinely performs a liver biopsy, cholycystectomy (removal of gall bladder) and other diagnostic testing that he feels might be necessary. The way I see it is that since you are already open on the operating room table, let them do the tests. It sure beats having to go back later to have it done. Good luck!!
   — KathieInHawaii