A lung biopsy is a procedure to remove a small sample of lung tissue for examination, often to diagnose lung diseases or cancer. There are several methods, but the most common are needle biopsy, transbronchial biopsy, and thoracoscopic biopsy.

How a Lung Biopsy Is Done

Needle (Percutaneous or Transthoracic) Lung Biopsy:

• The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and is often done with the guidance of imaging such as a CT scan or X-ray to locate the exact biopsy site.
• The skin over the biopsy site is cleaned with antiseptic, and a local anesthetic is injected, which may cause a brief sting.
• A small incision may be made, and a thin biopsy needle is inserted through the skin, between the ribs, and into the lung to collect tissue samples.
• You may feel pressure or discomfort when the needle enters the lung.
• The needle is withdrawn, and firm pressure is applied to stop any bleeding.
• A chest X-ray is typically done immediately afterward to check for complications like a collapsed lung (pneumothorax).
• The tissue sample is sent to a lab for analysis

Transbronchial Lung Biopsy:

• Performed using a bronchoscope inserted through the mouth or nose into the lungs.
• Sedation may be given to make you sleepy but awake.
• The doctor uses the bronchoscope to guide small instruments to take tissue samples.
• Monitoring of heart rate, oxygen, and breathing occurs during the procedure

Thoracoscopic (Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery - VATS) Lung Biopsy:

• Performed under general anesthesia in an operating room.
• The surgeon makes small incisions between the ribs and inserts a thoracoscope (a camera) and instruments to remove lung tissue.
• A breathing tube is used to assist breathing during the surgery.
• This method is more invasive and used when larger or more precise samples are needed

After the Procedure

• You may be monitored for several hours to watch for complications.
• Chest X-rays are done to ensure the lung has not collapsed.
• If a pneumothorax occurs and does not resolve on its own, a chest tube may be inserted to re-inflate the lung

In summary, a lung biopsy involves carefully guided insertion of a needle or surgical instruments to obtain lung tissue, with imaging guidance and anesthesia or sedation to minimize discomfort and ensure safety