Lung Biopsy

What is Lung Biopsy?

Lung biopsy is a procedure performed to isolate a sample of lung tissue for examining under a microscope for the presence of cancerous cells, infections and other lung conditions.

Indications of Lung Biopsy

The procedure is used as a diagnostic tool for the confirmation and staging of cancer and lung conditions such as pneumonia and pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of the lungs).

Lung Biopsy Procedure

Lung biopsy is performed under general anesthesia. Your doctor inserts a tube through your mouth into the chest cavity to prevent your lung from collapsing, which will remain for a day or 2 after the surgery. Your doctor cleans your chest skin and makes an incision on the chest region, between the ribs, which extends under the arm towards your back. A small piece of lung tissue is removed and sent for microscopic examination. The incision is then closed with the help of sutures.

Complications of Lung Biopsy

Like all procedures, lung biopsy may be associated with certain complications such as blood clots, pain, infection and pneumonia.