Lung biopsy: patient guide

Lung health is essential for an active and fulfilling life. When breathing problems occur or lung abnormalities are detected, an accurate diagnosis is crucial in order to initiate appropriate treatment.

In this context, lung biopsy plays a vital role.

The Elytis Hospital, our thoracic surgery specialists use modern, minimally invasive techniques to provide patients with the best results in diagnosing and treating lung conditions.

What is a lung biopsy?

Lung biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of lung tissue is taken for examination under a microscope. This investigation is essential to identify the cause of lung problems and to make an accurate diagnosis.

The Elytis Hospital, the procedure is performed by an experienced medical team, using advanced, minimally invasive technologies that ensure patient comfort and safety.

Types of lung biopsies

There are several types of lung biopsies, each with specific indications. The choice of the type of biopsy depends on the location and size of the lesion, as well as the patient's general health. Here are some of the most common types of lung biopsies performed at Elytis Hospital:

• Bronchoscopic biopsy: this procedure is performed using a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera that is inserted through the nose or mouth into the lungs. Bronchoscopic biopsy is useful for taking samples from the main airways and is commonly used to investigate bronchopulmonary tumors, lung infections or lung bleeding of unknown cause.
• Transbronchial biopsy: during a bronchoscopy, the doctor can take samples of lung tissue through the walls of the bronchi using a special needle. This technique is useful for diagnosing conditions such as pneumonia, lung cancer or sarcoidosis.
• Percutaneous lung biopsy: this procedure involves inserting a thin needle through the chest wall, guided by imaging (X-ray, CT scan), up to the level of the lung lesion. Percutaneous lung biopsy is indicated in the case of pulmonary nodules or tumor masses located in the periphery of the lungs.
• Surgical biopsy: In certain situations, a surgical biopsy may be necessary to obtain a larger tissue sample. This is done through minimally invasive, thoracoscopic surgery or, in more complex cases, thoracotomy (surgical opening of the chest).

Pleural biopsy

The pleura is a thin membrane that envelops the lungs and lines the inside of the chest cavity. A pleural biopsy is a procedure in which a sample of tissue is taken from the pleura for examination under a microscope. This investigation is useful in diagnosing pleural effusions (accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity), pleural tumors or pleural infections.

The Elytis Hospitalpleural biopsy can be performed by:

• Thoracentesis: this procedure involves inserting a needle through the chest wall to drain the pleural fluid and take a tissue sample.
• Thoracoscopy: In certain cases, a thoracoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visualization of the pleural cavity and biopsy under visual control, may be necessary.

Why is lung and pleural biopsy important?

Lung and pleural biopsy are essential investigations to establish an accurate diagnosis of lung and pleural disorders. These procedures allow:

• Diagnosis of lung and pleural cancer: biopsy is crucial for confirming the diagnosis of cancer and determining the type of cancer, which is essential information for choosing the right treatment.
• Identifying infections: biopsy can identify the pathogen responsible for the infection, whether bacteria, viruses or fungi.
• Investigating interstitial lung diseases: lung biopsy is useful in diagnosing pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis and other interstitial lung diseases.
• Evaluation of pleural effusions: pleural biopsy helps to determine the cause of pleural effusion, allowing the identification of infection, cancer or other conditions.

How do you prepare for a lung or pleural biopsy?

Before a lung or pleural biopsy, the specialist at Elytis Hospital will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. These may include:

• Blood tests: to assess general health and identify possible blood clotting problems.
• Chest X-ray or CT scan: to pinpoint the lung or pleural lesion.
• Stopping certain medicines: medicines that increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin or anticoagulants, may need to be stopped.
• Fasting: depending on the type of biopsy, it may be necessary to abstain from food and drink a few hours before the procedure.

What happens during and after the biopsy?

The lung or pleural biopsy procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis at Elytis Hospital. During the procedure, you will be continuously monitored to ensure your comfort and safety. After the biopsy, you will be kept under observation for a short period of time, after which you can go home.

There may be some slight discomfort at the puncture site, but this can be relieved with common painkillers. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to care for the puncture site and what activities to avoid during recovery.

Biopsy results

The tissue sample taken during the biopsy will be sent to the laboratory to be analyzed by a pathologist. The results of the biopsy will be available in a few days and will be discussed with you by the specialist at Elytis Hospital. These results will help to establish the diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Elytis Hospital - the quality guarantee in thoracic surgery

The Elytis Hospitalyou benefit from the highest standards of care in thoracic surgery. Our team of specialists is dedicated to providing the best medical care using state-of-the-art technology and minimally invasive approaches.

Schedule a consultation

For diagnosis and treatment of chest conditions, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ciprian Sebastian Lovin, primary thoracic surgery.

Elytis Hospital offers you the highest standards of medical care for your lung health!

Latest medical review:

14.02.2025, Dr. Lovin Ciprian Sebastian Ciprian - Primary Physician

References:

• Cham, Matthew, Lane, Maureen, Lane, Maureen, Henschke, Claudia, Yankelevitz, David. "Lung Biopsy: Special Techniques". Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, August 2008, 29(4), pg. 335-349.
• Raj, Rishi (PhD), Raparia, Kirtee (PhD), Lynch, David (PhD), Brown, Kevin (PhD)."Surgical Lung Biopsy for Interstitial Lung Diseases." Recent Advances in Chest Medicine, Vol. 151, No. 5, May 2017, pg. 1131-1140.
• Kramer, Mordechai (dr.), et.al."The Role of Open Lung Biopsy in the Management and Outcome of Patients With Diffuse Lung Disease". The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, Vol. 65, no. 1, January 1998, pg. 198-202.