Lung needle biopsy
Key points
- A lung needle biopsy is the process of obtaining and examining a sample of lung tissue.
- Before a needle biopsy of the lung is conducted, a chest x-ray, chest CT scan, or bronchoscopy will be performed.
- The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust.
- A needle lung biopsy is performed when there is an abnormal condition that is near the surface of the lung, in the lung itself, or on the chest wall.
Alternative names
Transthoracic needle aspiration; Percutaneous needle aspiration
Definition
A lung needle biopsy is the process of obtaining and examining a sample of lung tissue.
How the test is performed
- A chest x-ray or chest CT scan may be used to locate the precise spot of the biopsy. (If the biopsy is done using a CT scan, you may be lying down during the exam.)
- You sit with your arms resting forward on a table. You should maintain this position and refrain from coughing during the biopsy. The skin is scrubbed and a local anesthetic is injected.
- A small (about 1/8-inch) incision may be made in the skin, and the biopsy needle is inserted into the abnormal tissue, tumor, or lung tissue. A small specimen is removed with the needle and sent to the laboratory.
- Pressure is placed over the site. Once bleeding has stopped, a bandage is applied.
- A chest x-ray is obtained immediately after the biopsy.
The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Laboratory analysis usually takes a few days.
How to prepare for the test
Before a needle biopsy of the lung is conducted, a chest x-ray, chest CT scan, or bronchoscopy will be performed. Sometimes a mild sedative will precede the biopsy. You must sign a consent form. It is important to remain as still as possible for the biopsy, and to refrain from coughing.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
- Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
- Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
- Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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