Frequently asked questions about Lung biopsy

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who does a lung biopsy?

Lung biopsy procedure is mostly done by a surgeon or a radiologist.

2. Where is the lung biopsy performed?

Lung biopsy is mostly performed in the surgery department or radiology room.

3. What is done before the lung biopsy?

• The doctor or clinician notes down the patient’s health history, medications, and allergies.
• The doctor does a brief physical examination. Blood samples will be collected.
• A chest x-ray or CT scan will be done.
• The patient is asked to sign a consent form after clearing his/her doubts about the biopsy procedure.

4. What is done after the lung biopsy?

• Chest X-ray will be taken after the biopsy procedure to monitor for air leakage to avoid lung collapse.
• 4 hours of critical observation will ensue the procedure.
• After 4 hours, a second chest x-ray will be taken.
• If no abnormality in chest x-ray is observed, the patient is discharged.
• In case of abnormality in X-ray due to air leakage, a tube is inserted in to the chest wall to remove the air in the pleural cavity.
• This tube will be removed after the lung returns to normal condition.