A kidney biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is extracted from the kidney for examination under a microscope. It is one of the most definitive diagnostic tools available to assess the nature and extent of kidney disease. One or more tissue samples are studied under specialised microscopes to detect any structural changes or abnormalities in kidney tissue.
Important Note
A kidney biopsy is a medical procedure that must only be recommended and performed by a qualified nephrologist. If you have been advised a biopsy, consult Dr. Deepak Dhankhar to understand what the results mean and how Ayurvedic treatment can help your specific condition.
Types of Kidney Biopsy
A kidney biopsy can be performed in two different ways depending on the patient's condition and the treating physician's judgment:
Percutaneous Biopsy
A needle is inserted through the skin and guided to the kidney using ultrasound imaging. This is the most common method and is minimally invasive with a faster recovery time.
Open Biopsy (Surgical)
During surgery, a kidney tissue sample is taken directly from the organ. This is typically performed when the percutaneous approach is not suitable due to anatomy or bleeding risk.
Why is Biopsy Important?
A kidney biopsy provides information that cannot be obtained through blood tests, urine tests, or imaging alone. It reveals the exact type and degree of damage at the cellular level, allowing doctors to prescribe targeted treatment and predict disease progression.
When Is a Kidney Biopsy Performed?
A kidney biopsy is typically ordered when other diagnostic tests have not provided a clear enough picture. Your nephrologist may recommend this procedure if you show signs of:
Preparing for a Kidney Biopsy
Pre-Procedure Checklist
Following these instructions ensures a safe biopsy and reduces the risk of complications such as bleeding.
- Stop taking aspirin and aspirin-containing medications at least two weeks before the procedure, as they cause blood thinning and increase bleeding risk.
- Avoid over-the-counter pain medicines like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) which also have blood-thinning properties.
- Inform your doctor about all supplements you take — including multivitamins, fish oil, and herbal supplements — as some can affect clotting.
- Do not eat or drink anything before the procedure, as with any procedure requiring anaesthesia or sedation.
- Ensure all existing blood test reports (creatinine, GFR, CBC, PT/INR) are available for review before the biopsy date.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as sedation affects your ability to drive safely.
After the Biopsy — What Happens Next?
Once the biopsy results are available, your nephrologist will discuss the findings with you. Depending on the type and extent of kidney damage identified, a treatment plan will be recommended. This is where Ayurvedic treatment plays a powerful complementary role.
Ayurveda After Biopsy — A Holistic Path Forward
Dr. Deepak Dhankhar specialises in interpreting kidney biopsy reports and designing personalised Ayurvedic treatment protocols to slow or reverse kidney damage — naturally and without harmful side effects. Patients at all stages of kidney disease, including those with biopsy-confirmed CKD Stage 3, 4 and 5, have seen significant improvement in GFR levels and creatinine under his care.
Consult Dr. Deepak Dhankhar
Share your kidney biopsy report with Dr. Dhankhar for a personalised Ayurvedic treatment plan. Consultations are available online (video call) all 7 days and in person at Najafgarh, Delhi on Saturdays and Sundays.