Percutaneous Biopsy of Kidney, Comparison Between Prone and Sitting Position

Percutaneous kidney biopsy has been established as a safe, reliable and minimally invasive method for diagnosing abnormalities. This study aims to describe the author’s experience with biopsy of the kidney and to compare the results between sitting and prone position in terms of the safety and relevant complications. Methods. Patients were divided into two groups: prone and sitting position based on the clinician’s and patient’s preferences for the biopsy. Followed by kidney biopsy, its relevant complications were analyzed in both groups. Then, data and the mean number of obtained glomeruli in each group were compared. Results. Apart from sweating, presumably due to the prone position, no significant differences were found regarding the side effects including dizziness, seizure, nausea, and vomiting between the two groups. The number of obtained glomeruli was not significantly different between prone and sitting position. Conclusion. In comparison with the prone position, kidney biopsy at sitting position is a good choice of procedure at least for patients who could not tolerate prone position. We recommend sitting position for kidney biopsy owing to the lower side effect and more comfortable experience for many patients. However, clinician may probably become a bit uncomfortable with this position.