Why is this procedure done?
The pleura are lining of the lungs and inside of the chest. Your doctor may need a sample of this tissue. It will help the doctor learn about your condition. The doctor may be looking to see: � �
- Why you have fluid collecting in your lungs. This is a pleural effusion.
- If you have something abnormal in the lining of your lungs
- If you have a disease like tuberculosis, cancer of the lungs, or some other disease
What will the results be?
Normal results may mean that your lungs are free of infection, swelling, or cancer. Abnormal results may tell you that you have problems with your lungs. Talk to your doctor about what your test results mean. � �
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will tell you how the procedure is done and its risks. You will sign a consent form.
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin � �, ibuprofen, Aleve � � (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- If there are any drugs you need to take before the procedure.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- Chest x-ray
- Blood tests
- Ultrasound of the chest
- CT scan of the chest
What happens during the procedure?
This is most often done in an outpatient center. You will be awake in most cases and will be sitting up. The doctor cleans the area where the the procedure will be done. A local numbing drug is put through the skin and into the outer lining of your lung. You may feel some burning when the numbing drug is put in. � �
Next, the doctor puts a larger needle through your skin into the lung. You may feel pressure or a tugging feeling during this procedure. The doctor will ask you to sing, hum, or say "eee " � a few times. This will help keep air from getting into the area around your lungs and keep your lung from collapsing. � �
Your doctor will remove the needle to collect samples. Most often, the doctor takes 3 samples. When the test is done, the doctor puts a sterile bandage over the biopsy site. This test takes between 30 to 60 minutes. � �
What happens after the procedure?
- You may rest for a few hours. Your nurse will check on you and monitor your recovery.
- A chest x-ray will be done to make sure your lung has not collapsed and there is no bleeding.
- Your biopsy site may feel a little sore. You may be given drugs to ease pain.
- You may go home after a few hours if there are no problems.
What care is needed at home?
- Rest for 1 to 2 days at home.
- Avoid heavy activities for 1 week.
- You may remove your bandage 1 to 2 days after the test.
- Take your drugs as ordered, if there are any.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. You may need more tests based on the results of your biopsy. � �
What problems could happen?
Rarely, these problems could happen: � �
- Puncture in the walls of the lung
- Bleeding in the lung
- Build up of pus in the lung
- Air in the lungs which may lead to lung collapse
- Infection where the needle was put in
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Signs of infection. These include a fever of 100.4 � �F (38 � �C) or higher, chills, cough, more sputum, or change in color of sputum.
- If you have sudden trouble breathing or cough up bright red blood, go to the ER.
Where can I learn more?
Better Health Channel � �
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Biopsy � �
KidsHealth � �
http://kidshealth.org/parent/system/medical/biopsy.html � �
National Heart Lung and Blood institute � �
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/pleurisy/diagnosis.html � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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