Lung biopsy



Definition

Lung biopsy is a procedure for obtaining a small sample of lung tissue for examination. The tissue is usually examined under a microscope, and may be sent to a microbiological laboratory for culture. Microscopic examination is performed by a pathologist.


Purpose

A lung biopsy is usually performed to determine the cause of abnormalities, such as nodules that appear on chest x rays. It can confirm a diagnosis of cancer, especially if malignant cells are detected in the patient's sputum or bronchial washing. In addition to evaluating lung tumors and their associated symptoms, lung biopsies may be used to diagnose lung infections, especially tuberculosis and Pneumocystis pneumonia, drug reactions, and chronic diseases of the lungs such as sarcoidosis and pulmonary fibrosis.

A lung biopsy can be used for treatment as well as diagnosis. Bronchoscopy , a type of lung biopsy performed with a long, flexible slender instrument called a bronchoscope, can be used to clear a patient's air passages of secretions and to remove airway blockages.


Demographics

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 77% of all cancers are diagnosed in people ages 55 and older. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Each year, about 170,000 Americans are diagnosed with lung cancer. It is much more prevalent among African Americans than the general population. Nine out of 10 cases of lung cancer are caused by smoking cigarettes, pipes, or cigars.


Description

Overview

The right and left lungs are separated by the mediastinum, which contains the heart, trachea, lymph nodes, and esophagus. Lung biopsies sometimes involve mediastinoscopy .


Types of lung biopsies

Lung biopsies are performed using a variety of techniques, depending on where the abnormal tissue is located in the lung, the health and age of the patient, and the presence of lung disease. A bronchoscopy is ordered if a lesion identified on the x ray seems to be located on the wall (periphery) of the chest. If the suspicious area lies close to the chest wall, a needle biopsy can be done. If both methods fail to diagnose the problem, an open lung biopsy may be performed. When there is a question about whether the lung cancer or suspicious mass has spread to the lymph nodes in the mediastinum, a mediastinoscopy is performed.

BRONCHOSCOPIC BIOPSY. During the bronchoscopy, a thin, lighted tube (bronchoscope) is passed from the nose or mouth, down the windpipe (trachea) to the air passages (bronchi) leading to the lungs. Through the bronchoscope, the physician views the airways, and is able to clear mucus from blocked airways, and collect cells or tissue samples for laboratory analysis.

NEEDLE BIOPSY. The patient is mildly sedated, but awake during the needle biopsy procedure. He or she sits in a chair with arms folded in front on a table. An x ray technician uses a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner or a fluoroscope to identify the precise location of the suspicious areas. Markers are placed on the overlying skin to identify the biopsy site. The skin is thoroughly cleansed with an antiseptic solution, and a local anesthetic is injected to numb the area. The patient will feel a brief stinging sensation when the anesthetic is injected.

The physician makes a small incision, about half an inch (1.25 cm) in length. The patient is asked to take a deep breath and hold it while the physician inserts the biopsy needle through the incision into the lung tissue to be biopsied. The patient may feel pressure, and a brief sharp pain when the needle touches the lung tissue. Most patients do not experience severe pain. The patient should refrain from coughing during the procedure. The needle is withdrawn when enough tissue has been obtained. Pressure is applied at the biopsy site and a sterile bandage is placed over the incision. A chest x ray is performed immediately after the procedure to check for potential complications. The entire procedure takes 30 to 60 minutes.


OPEN BIOPSY. Open biopsies are performed in a hospital operating room under general anesthesia. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the surgeon makes an incision over the lung area, a procedure called a thoracotomy . Some lung tissue is removed and the incision is closed with sutures. Chest tubes are placed with one end inside the lung and the other end protruding through the closed incision. Chest tubes are used to drain fluid and blood, and re-expand the lungs. They are usually removed the day after the procedure. The entire procedure normally takes about an hour. A chest x ray is performed immediately after the procedure to check for potential complications.

VIDEO-ASSISTED THORACOSCOPIC SURGERY. A minimally invasive technique, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) can be used to biopsy lung and mediastinal lesions. VATS may be performed on selected patients in place of open lung biopsy. While the patient is under general anesthetia, the surgeon makes several small incisions in the his or her chest wall. A thorascope, a thin, hollow, lighted tube with a tiny video camera mounted on it, is inserted through one of the small incisions. The other incisions allow the surgeon to insert special instruments to retrieve tissue for biopsy.

MEDIASTINOSCOPY. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. A 2–3 in (5–8 cm) incision is made at the base of the neck. A thin, hollow, lighted tube, called a mediastinoscope, is inserted through the incision into the space between the right and the left lungs. The surgeon removes any lymph nodes or tissues that look abnormal. The mediastinoscope is then removed, and the incision is sutured and bandaged. A mediastinoscopy takes about an hour.


Diagnosis/Preparation

Diagnosis

Before scheduling a lung biopsy, the physician performs a careful evaluation of the patient's medical history and symptoms, and performs a physical examination . Chest x rays and sputum cytology (examination of cells obtained from a deep-cough mucus sample) are other diagnostic tests that may be performed. An electrocardiogram (EKG) and laboratory tests may be performed before the procedure to check for blood clotting problems, anemia, and blood type, should a transfusion become necessary.


Preparation

During a preoperative appointment, usually scheduled within one to two weeks before the procedure, the patient receives information about what to expect during the procedure and the recovery period. During this appointment or just before the procedure, the patient usually meets with the physician (or physicians) performing the procedure (the pulmonologist, interventional radiologist, or thoracic surgeon).

A chest x ray or CAT scan of the chest is used to identify the area to be biopsied.

About an hour before the biopsy procedure, the patient receives a sedative. Medication may also be given to dry up airway secretions. General anesthesia is not used for this procedure.

For at least 12 hours before the open biopsy, VATS, or mediastinoscopy procedures, the patient should not eat or drink anything. Prior to these procedures, an intravenous line is placed in a vein in the patient's arm to deliver medications or fluids as necessary. A hollow tube, called an endotracheal tube, is passed through the patient's mouth into the airway leading to the lungs. Its purpose is to deliver the general anesthetic. The chest area is cleansed with an antiseptic solution. In the mediastinoscopy procedure, the neck is also cleansed to prepare for the incision.

Smoking cessation

Patients who will undergo surgical diagnostic and treatment procedures should be encouraged to stop smoking and stop using tobacco products. The patient needs to make the commitment to be a nonsmoker after the procedure. Patients able to stop smoking several weeks before surgical procedures have fewer postoperative complications. Smoking cessation programs are available in many communities. The patient should ask a health care provider for more information if he or she needs help with smoking cessation.


Informed consent

Informed consent is an educational process between health care providers and patients. Before any procedure is performed, the patient is asked to sign a consent form. Prior to signing the form, the patient should understand the nature and purpose of the diagnostic procedure or treatment, its risks and benefits, and alternatives, including the option of not proceeding with the test or treatment. During the discussions, the health care providers are available to answer the patient's questions about the consent form or procedure.


Aftercare

Needle biopsy

Following a needle biopsy, the patient is allowed to rest comfortably. He or she may be required to lie flat for two hours following the procedure to prevent the risk of bleeding. The nurse checks the patient's status at two-hour intervals. If there are no complications after four hours, the patient can go home once he or she has received instructions about resuming normal activities. The patient should rest at home for a day or two before returning to regular activities, and should avoid strenuous activities for one week after the biopsy.


Open biopsy, VATS, or mediastinoscopy

After an open biopsy, VATS, or mediastinoscopy, the patient is taken to the recovery room for observation. The patient receives oxygen via a face mask or nasal cannula. If no complications develop, the patient is taken to a hospital room. Temperature, blood oxygen level, pulse, blood pressure, and respiration are monitored. Chest tubes remain in place after surgery to prevent the lungs from collapsing, and to remove blood and fluids. The tubes are usually removed the day after the procedure.

The patient may experience some grogginess for a few hours after the procedure. He or she may have a sore throat from the endotracheal tube. The patient may also have some pain or discomfort at the incision site, which can be relieved by pain medication. It is common for patients to require some pain medication for up to two weeks following the procedure.

After receiving instructions about resuming normal activities and caring for the incision, the patient usually goes home the day after surgery. The patient should not drive while taking narcotic pain medication.

Patients may experience fatigue and muscle aches for a day or two because of the general anesthesia. The patient can gradually increase activities, as tolerated. Walking is recommended. Sutures are usually removed after one to two weeks.

The physician should be notified immediately if the patient experiences extreme pain, light-headedness, or difficulty breathing after the procedure. Sputum may be slightly bloody for a day or two after the procedure. Heavy or persistent bleeding requires evaluation by the physician.


Risks

Lung biopsies should not be performed on patients who have a bleeding disorder or abnormal blood clotting because of low platelet counts, or prolonged prothrombin time (PT) or partial thromboplastin time (PTT). Platelets are small blood cells that play a role in the blood clotting process. PT and PTT measure how well blood is clotting. If clotting times are prolonged, it may be unsafe to perform a biopsy because of the risk of bleeding. If the platelet count is lower than 50,000/cubic mm, the patient may be given a platelet transfusion as a temporary relief measure, and a biopsy can then be performed.

In addition, lung biopsies should not be performed if other tests indicate the patient has enlarged alveoli associated with emphysema, pulmonary hypertension, or enlargement of the right ventricle of the heart (cor pulmonale).

The normal risks of any surgical procedure include bleeding, infection, or pneumonia. The risk of these complications is higher in patients undergoing open biopsy procedures, as is the risk of pneumothorax (lung collapse). In rare cases, the lung collapses because of air that leaks in through the hole made by the biopsy needle. A chest x ray is done immediately after the biopsy to detect the development of this potential complication. If a pneumothorax occurs, a chest tube is inserted into the pleural cavity to re-expand the lung. Signs of pneumothorax include shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, or blueness of the skin (a late sign). If the patient has any of these symptoms after being discharged from the hospital, it is important to call the health care provider or emergency services immediately.


Bronchoscopic biopsy

Bronchoscopy is generally safe, and complications are rare. If they do occur, complications may include spasms of the bronchial tubes that can impair breathing, irregular heart rhythms, or infections such as pneumonia.


Needle biopsy

Needle biopsy is associated with fewer risks than open biopsy because it does not involve general anesthesia. Some hemoptysis (coughing up blood) occurs in 5% of needle biopsies. Prolonged bleeding or infection may also occur, although these are very rare complications.


Open biopsy

Possible complications of an open biopsy include infection or pneumothorax. If the patient has very severe breathing problems before the biopsy, breathing may be further impaired following the operation. Patients with normal lung function prior to the biopsy have a very small risk of respiratory problems resulting from or following the procedure.

Mediastinoscopy

Complications due to mediastinoscopy are rare. Possible complications include pneumothorax or bleeding caused by damage to the blood vessels near the heart. Mediastinitis, infection of the mediastinum, may develop. Injury to the esophagus or larynx may occur. If the nerves leading to the larynx are injured, the patient may be left with a permanently hoarse voice. All of these complications are rare.


Normal results

Normal results indicate no evidence of infection in the lungs, no detection of lumps or nodules, and cells that are free from cancerous abnormalities.

Abnormal results of needle biopsy, VATS, and open biopsy may be associated with diseases other than cancer. Nodules in the lungs may be due to active infections such as tuberculosis, or may be scars from a previous infection. In 33% of biopsies using a mediastinoscope, the biopsied lymph nodes prove to be cancerous. Abnormal results should always be considered in the context of the patient's medical history, physical examination, and other tests such as sputum examination, and chest x rays before a final diagnosis is made.


Morbidity and mortality rates

The risk of death from needle biopsy is rare. The risk of death from open biopsy is one in 3,000 cases. In mediastinoscopy, death occurs in fewer than one in 3,000 cases.


Alternatives

The type of alternative diagnostic procedures available depend upon each patient's diagnosis.

Some people may be eligible to participate in clinical trials, research programs conducted with patients to evaluate a new medical treatment, drug, or device. The purpose of clinical trials is to find new and improved methods of treating different diseases and special conditions. For more information on current clinical trials, visit the National Institutes of Health's ClinicalTrials.gov at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov or call (888) FIND-NLM [(888) 346-3656] or (301) 594-5983.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has conducted a clinical trial to evaluate a technology—low-dose helical computed tomography—for its effectiveness in screening for lung cancer. One study concluded that this test is more sensitive in detecting specific conditions related to lung cancer than other screening tests.


Resources

books

"Bronchoscopy." In The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy, Seventeenth Edition. Edited by Beers, M.D., Mark H., and Robert Berkow, M.D. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck & Co., Inc., 1999.

Groenwald, S.L. et al. Cancer Nursing Principles and Practice. Fifth Edition. Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett Publishers, 2000.

organizations

American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC). 11030 Ables Lane, Dallas, TX 75229. E-mail: info@aarc.org. http://www.aarc.org .

American Cancer Society. 1599 Clifton Road, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30329. (800) 227-2345 or (404) 320-3333. http://www.cancer.org .

American College of Chest Physicians. 3300 Dundee Road, Northbrook, IL 60062-2348. (847) 498-1400. http://www.chestnet.org .

American Lung Association and American Thoracic Society. 1740 Broadway, New York, NY 10019-4374. (800) 586-4872 or (212) 315-8700. http://www.lungusa.org and http://www.thoracic.org .

Cancer Research Institute. 681 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10022. (800) 992-2623. http://www.cancerresearch.org .

Lung Line National Jewish Medical and Research Center. 14090 Jackson Street, Denver, CO 80206. (800) 222-5864. E-mail: lungline@njc.org. http://www.nationaljewish.org .

National Cancer Institute (National Institutes of Health). 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892. (800) 422-6237. http://www.nci.nih.gov .

National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Information Center. P.O. Box 30105, Bethesda, MD 20824-0105. (301) 251-2222. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov .

other

Dailylung.com http://www.dailylung.com .

Chest Medicine On-Line http://www.priory.com/chest.htm .

National Lung Health Education Program. http://www.nlhep.com .

Pulmonarypaper.org P.O. Box 877, Ormond Beach, FL 32175. (800) 950-3698. http://www.pulmonarypaper.org .

Pulmonary Forum http://www.pulmonarychannel.com .


Barbara Wexler
Angela M. Costello

WHO PERFORMS THE PROCEDURE AND WHERE IS IT PERFORMED?


Fiberoptic bronchoscopy is performed by pulmonologists, physician specialists in pulmonary medicine. CAT guided needle biopsy is done by interventional radiologists, physician specialists in radiological procedures. Thoracic surgeons perform open biopsies and VATS. Specially trained nurses, x ray, and laboratory technicians assist during the procedures and provide pre- and postoperative education and supportive care.

The procedures are performed in an operating or procedure room in a hospital.

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DOCTOR




User Contributions:

1
ismet cinemre
I wish I had seen your page before my mother has gone under the needle-biopsy. I could have asked the right questions. We were told that because the tumor is close to the back they will proceed from the back. After the procedure she was coughing blood, she had a severe pain and we were told that there was some air leakage. She has taken to the emergency ward and a young doctor (or a learning doctor-he was under supervision of the senior registaror) unsuccesfully tried to put the tube through the chest, after couple of attempt, senior doctor have taken over and finished the procedure but that was a terrible experience for all of us, aspecially for mum who was lying there, helpless, her face was covered with the part of the protective sheet, covering the chest with a small opening on the procedure area . I was holding my mums hand and trying the comfort her under the 'RELAX' commends of the 'appentice' doctor.
2
rowena timola
where is the best hospital here in the philippines can perform that bronchoscopic biopsy..i need badly an answer.it will be a great help for me if anyone can send me an information.thanks a lot and more power.
My mum has had both bronoscopy and VATS to diagnose a mass in her right lung. All test results are inconclusive. Prior to VATS she was scheduled for a needle biopsy but became very unwell and transferred to ICU and placed on a ventilator. She is still in ICU and on a ventitlator 5 days later. What more can be done and what could be causing such rapid decline - 3 weeks ago she was doing her own shopping, a week later in emergency and a week later on a ventilator?
I am scheduled to have a needle biopsy for a mass in my right lung. How does the doctor decide which procedure is best ? I will be awake during this procedure and really afraid I might move when the needle touches the lung. I have read that when the needle touches the lung there is a sharp pain. If I have to have an injection anywhere I usually jump a little. I just cant seem to help it. They will give me a sedative to calm me before the procedure but I am not sure it will be enough. I have had 8 lumbar epidurals and was given Fentanyl and Versaid and was completely out during the procedure. With a procedure as important as a lung needle biopsy why is it necessary for me to be awake. Really stressing over this. I have some mild xanax, should i take one before leaving home for the test?
5
Donna West
Hi Amanda. How is your Mum? Has anyone answered your questions for you about her decline and what caused it? Do you have a friend or relative in a medical facility that could assist? If not, google causes of respiratory failure or ventilator. Sounds to my untrained ears that there was a problem with the 1st couple of procedures that caused her lungs to collapse. Make yourself a list of questions and keep a diary of everything so you can refer back. I know it gets very complicated when you are dealing with a lot of doctors who speak Greek. Hope things go well for you. My Dad was just diagnosed with lung cancer and it has been hard getting answers to all of our questions. Do you own research and then ask questions from your list. If your Mum's doctors are good ones they will not mind you asking questions and taking notes.
Best wishes,
Donna West
Birmingham, Alabama
6
Cindy
My broncoscope biopsy results were inconclusive. I will be having surgery for 3 spots on my lungs. Anyone have any idea how long till I will be able to travel after the surgery? I will not be talking to the surgeon for a week yet.

Thank- You
Cindy
I go tomorrow morning for a biopsy on the right side of my lung,,,I am in Gods hands and I trust in him ,,I am scared to cough or sneeze durning this , but I will think positive,,Wish me luck,No pray for me thank you all jeannine from {canada}
Well had my Biopsy yesterday and Gee the doctor talked me thriugh it ,I was scared,I was glad the doctor talked to me the whole time ,, GREAT,,I feel better now it,s wait for the result..I say get it done if you need one ..God Bless all of you..
My wife had the mediascopy and then an open lung biopsy done about a month apart and now is experiencing on going pain on her left side, at the site of the open biopsy site, I was wondering if it is normal to have reacurring pain at surgical site months even years later after the procedures were done?
My dad developed a mass on his upper lope right lung. After he went in for biopsy, he had a fewer at1o2.7 F. Then he still had a fewer all night off and on. I was wondering if he is going to be OK ?
11
Wonder
Can a person have a lung needle biopsy and the next day have no visible sign of the procedure?
My mother is fixing to have a needle biopsy next week. Will they give her an amnesia drug before the procedure?
My mom is scheduled to have a biopsy on her left lung on Wednesday. I'm really scared for her because we're finding out if the tumor in her lung is cancerous or benign. I hope its benign. How do I know what type of biopsy is going to be done?? They didn't tell us, and that kind of worries me. Pray for us.
14
kerry Ayesha
This article is very helpful..I would like to asked what if the patient having an anxiety which medication she/he should take prior to the procedure??MAny thanks!!!
I'm scheduled to go for a vats procedure and another bronoscopy. The first one was inconclusive. You can't get on a transplant list without having a diagnosis. This is very scary for me. Can anyone tell me good things about this.
my sister is scheuled for a biopsy next week, I am flying from Texas to Pa. to be with her, how long does it take after the biospy where they will have a diognosis?
My Dad was told he has lung cancer and they need to do a biopsy, my concern is he is 90 years old and has empazema and a leaking heart valve, can he handle a biopsy?
Hi everyone,
learned that my oldest sister mrs.susan jones of Eldridge,Missouri is very sick with the mass in her right lung, dense mass in the top of her right lung,the lymph node behind her lung is swollen,too.She will have biopsie next week. since she very sick with penumina in her one lung which her face showed numb last monday at noon rushed her to the hospital had many tests. she has low caluim level for her lung bec she had her tyhroid removed abt 2 weeks ago.bec her tyhroid had the cysts on.
please share her story. please pray for her !!
her mom(angel)will watch her durning the biopsie..thaanks!
from her deaf sister,
carolyn mcilian,lebanon,missouri
I would like to know wich is the most accurate Biopsy, but also the most safe for you
20
angela
i was informed wednesday that they found a mass in my right lung. scared right now. but will have to have a biopsy done. need all the support i can get.
21
Akshay
my mom under went the procedure - generally how much time is taken for the reports - how and where the same is examined ? i mean is the sample taken to the laboratory or where ?
I NEED TO KNOW THAT WHEN IS MY LEFT LUNG WILL I HAD A LUNG BIOSPY 8 YEARS AND WHEN I AM SITTING DOWN OR BENDING COUGHING I GET A SPASM PAIN AND I'LL HAVE TO TRY AND STRECH IT OUT THEN IT WILL GO AWAY AND IT FEELS LIKE IT HASN'T HEAL
Having Open Lung Biopsy-VATS Procedure to determine why I have changes in my lower left lobe and my upper right lobe. Was in ICU and in a medically induced coma for 5 days while dr.s gave my family hope that I would pull through...the mortality rate was low, but I made it. After several CAT Scans over the past 9 months, my pulmonologist sent me to a thorasic doc. The thing I'm most concerned about is lung collaspe. How often does this happen? Can anyone tell me their experience with the surgery? After coming so close to death last Oct, I'm feeling scared.

Thanks ahead of time! srdaley@sonnet.com
24
Peggy
My comment on Wayne. I had an thoracotomy about three weeks ago and I am currently experiencing pain on my left side. The incision have healed but the pain on my left side will not go away. It hurts constantly. I have to take pain medicine everyday. Can somebody tell me what they think is going on. My results showed no sarcoidosis but my doctor said that he seen some changes in my lung. What dies that mean?Can anyone tell me what that means? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
25
Maree
l have just been told after having a PET scan l need a lung lung biopsy. l have an appointment to see the surgeons on Tues 31st Jan the specialist will go through my PET scan results and how they will do my bi opsy . Does this mean l have lung cancer? specialist have found 2 spots on my left lung.
26
savitri
Ihave been coughing for three months,was at the emerg and had 4 courses os antibiotics then chest xray then CAT SCAN FOR MY LUNG. my dr. order a bronscopy I am worried since I am a twice breast cancer survivor. I never smoke a day in my life. My procedure is on monday 13th feb-2012. I am crosing and praying I do have a series of health problem. Please say a prayer for me. thanks.
27
Terry C
I am having a bronchoscopy on February 14, 2012 (Happy Valentine's day to me), how soon after this procedure can I fly? Have had a trip booked for over a year now and there is no refunds!! Any advice for lonely jetted?
28
Bob S.
Having an open lung biopsy next week because of dark areas on lower right lung (Never smoke?)Quite concerned and wonder when I can return to work?
29
sue b
Hi My mum underwent VATS surgery on 17.2.12 following detection of a lung nodule. The surgery went well with the nodule and some surrounding tissue being removed and sent away for analysis. Following surgery she complained of mild breathlessness and fatigue. The hospital called her by telephone 2 days after discharge to check on her progress and mum reported mild breathlessness, they reassurred her that this was entirely normal following this procedure and that it was nothing to be concerned about. Several days later, unhappy about this she contacted her GP who visited and diagnosed a wound infection, antibiotics were given. After the 5 days course the problem had not resolved and the GP was called again, after ausculation he noted a crackling in the chest and diagnosed a chest infection, again antibiotics were prescribed and she was reassured that she was doing really well post op. My mum called me 2 days later complaining of feeling unwell, with moderate/severe breathlessness. An ambulance was called and my mum was admitted to intensive care unit with PAP machine placed in situ with IV antibiotics. A diagnosis of pneumonia, and pulmonary oedema was made but sadly she did not recover. My point is that anyone suffering from breathlessness post op MUST seek medical help via A/E and further investigations rather than being told/fobbed off by numerous health professionals in the community that this is normal.
THIS IS AN EXCELLENT REVIEW. I HAD A VATS AT THE BEST HOSPITAL IN NY.MY SURGEON WAS ONE OF THE BEST SURGEONS IN THE WORLD!MY OPERATION WAS QUITE A SUCCESS AND I WOULD RECOMMEND ANYONE TO HIM.
31
paula
my hushad had the lung Biopsy done and the dr said he had a flat spot on his left lung what does this mean. When he went in to the Hosptial he had Phneumonia
32
Mary Kay Burnham
My husband had the open lung biopsy this past Monday (10/8/2012). He came home on Wednesday, but before he was discharged, he had a painful episode, had an x-ray and nothing showed up on it, so the doctor said to increase his pain meds and send him home. He's experiencing some things that he doesn't know if its normal... when he coughs he feels air escaping from the incision site. He doesn't know what to expect and doesn't see his doctor until the 25th of October. Can anyone tell me the
post-op effects!!
33
D.d.
Air leaking... Probably from incision where the biopsy site is.
My sister had same thing... Now is back in hospital
AllwY stay on the safe side... Go!
34
marg
My husband just had surgical lung biopsy last Wednesday the 26th Nov. Was sent home on the 28th. with no instruction, and was in a lot of pain, was given Oxycocet. It's now the 8th od Dec. and he
is feeling a lot better. Came of his medication 3 days ago. We won't get the results till the 12th.
35
Sandy
hi I am new to this site, but I have concerns, My husband is having lung problems , and is scheluded to have a needle biopsy on the 7 th of August could anyone tell me if this procedure is dangerous or would I be concerned .
36
Wil
I had a Lung Biopsy on Nov 20th had several complications ( Lung collapsed & Air leakage ) got out the hospital 9 days later. The day released from Hospital Lost some of the feeling in both hands. Several weeks after being home was starting to feel better. Then woke up on Dec 23rd feeling like I just had the surgery the day before and have felt this way since. I have numbness in several parts of my body. Is this normal or should I go back to the Hospital to be checked out ? If anyone has some input please let me know.
only 53 white female - 50 pounds over weight,never smoked, real light drinkerwhat caused the onset shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea lead to f lung abnormalities. Grew up with ashma, sinus infection. Experienced vag. infections, could it have been exposure to asbestos at work-in office building 20 yrs. Plez describe how each could lead to adeep biop of a lung. And could my heart surgery , codeed out twice which a defib/stints are now in place for only 3-4months affect my recovery.
#2 why do u a spinal tap? What does it detect
#2 Describe a deep lung biop. How long for results?
38
doreen
had a lung needle biopsy. dr. said test nondiagnostic as they cant be sure the needle was placed in the perfect spot. He recommends a PET now. I wanted to do the PET first, as it was less invasive. Should I do another needle biopsy again. Why cant they just take the nodule out. It shouldnt be there anyway?
had a lung biopsy 3 years ago every thing was book perfect good doctor . Had lung biospy yesterday was to have same doctor but after i was on table (red flag ) they said a good different dr. would be doing the biopsy well wish i had got up off table my lung is sore my back is black were he inserted the needle and was trying to cough up blood lots of it couldn,t breath he was telling me no to cough never again .
40
Milon
Going to have a lung biopsy on mon or tues I have shortness of breath n have pnuemonia in both my lungs old hospital said it was an inflammatory pnuemonia new hospital said I need to do lung biopsy to see what kind of puemonia it really is I'm scared because of all the complications dr told me breath tube ventilator because of my shortness of breath I'm scared any thoughts out there
had biopsy yesterday.really hurt while he was doing it.hreard the Dr. say oh I may have hit a rib,give him more lidocane. Today coughing up blood. My question is how many days is it normal to cough up blood ?
42
joy
I had a Bronchoscopy biopsy today and have been having a lot of pain in my chest since I came home.. Nothing seems to help, is this normal?
43
anne
I HAVE JUST HAD MY BIOPSY ON RIGHT LUNG IT IS UNCOMFORTABLE BUT NOT AS PAINFUL AS I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE,THE STAFF ARE GREAT AND KEEP YOU RELAXED, I HAVE SOME PAIN WHEN BREATHING IN TO DEEP AND A COUGH NOW AND AGAIN, BUT PAIN KILLERS ARE KEEPING IT OK , BETTER TO GO THROUGH THIS THAN RISK LIFE . THOSE THOUGHT HELPED ME . LOVE TO ALL
44
Daisy
, there are people who svuvire stage 4 cancers, they just have to fight much harder to do it.The outcome of lung cancer is very hard to predict but until the doctor can take a look at him and give you a better idea of how bad the situation is, just make sure to spend time with him and let him know you love him and you're there for him.
45
Veronica
Is a lung biopsy helpful to determine chronic back pain with coughing and wheezing?
46
Karen
Number 24 comment, what happened? My son had this surgery and is healed up but he too is still experiencing pain 10 days later, is this normal?
All of you must know first what stage cancer you have. Run Run as Fast as you can to a Dana Faber, see a thorasic surgeon and an oncologist. I was diagnosed with stage 1B lung Cancer. they found cancer by accident. Cancer doesn't have symptoms.

Had a wedge taken out of one my lobes and I am fine. Opted for chemo had 3 treatments and no ill effects just wanted to make sure no cancer cells were floating around. Those of you having biopsies go and see and oncologist so they can give you options.

Sandy T.
48
Joan Tennant
I have had a lung biopsy on my left lung in January 2015 but 2 weeks after having this done i now suffer with bad back spasms and a very painfull shoulder this is on my right side it has now stopped me working as it hurts to do anything after about 2 hours of work i have pysio and they say i have a swollen disc the disc just happens to be at the side of were they put the needles in for the biopsy do you think it could have been damaged by this procedure asi dont know who to turn to for help please help if you can
49
yvonne
My partner tony was diagnosed with lung cancer he needed a stent put in to stop the swelling. Then he had a broncoscopy something went rong he was rushed to icu and died six days later.
I just had needle biopsy of the right upper lobe two days ago. My chest feels tight have coughed up twice a small amount of dark blood. I am getting some anxiety waiting for results. I am 71 widowed female who was about to really enjoy life after lifelong hardships. Please sena prayer this way and will do the same for all of you. God Bless
Please advise. My dad is 77 years old and had a lung biopsy done on Wednesday- 23/09/2015. He is battling with excruciating pain until now. The pain from the insertion of the needle it seems has come to the front left hand side. His ribs hurts as-well. Please can you advise if this is normal. Before the, biopsy he had pain, which is his normal everyday body pain. The pain on the left side has only started now after the biopsy.The doctor has said he didn't need a drain and he leek is not big enough to insert a tube.
My mum is going into hospital on Monday the 21st of December she is having a Bronchoscopic Biopsy were the camera is inserted down her throat the family are all worried about this,should this go ok or should we be worried about anything is there risks involved in this the doctor told her she will be in the hospital for about 4 or 5 hours would she need anyone to be with her in the hospital because my brother is going to pick her up after the procedure is done
53
Raquel
My husband had a broncoscopy and biopsy, five days ago. He has been having a low grade fever of 100 and cold sweats. Now his fever went up to 101.8 and his has shortness of breaths. I told him we should go to emergency room but he is being stubborn and wants to call his doctor in the morning should we wait?
54
Michelle
My mum had a cough for a while and on Tuesday went for a bronchoscopy. They took two biopsies ok then they took one at the bottom of her lung and then her heart rate dropped and now she is in a coma having fits and possible stroke. How does this happen ?
55
Jim Patten
Had VAT on May 9, 2016. Woke up after surgery with a catheter, tube out my right side, heart monitor, and a nurse putting in my IV. My side was extremely tender (normal). I've had many surgeries, so I knew, if I moved much, it would be painful...this is normal. First day and all night, my nurse and respirator nurse would wake me up and check me out. You'll sleep every minute you can (very tired). They will make you cough occasionally, to see if air is leaking in the biopsy sites. 1st and next day, I coughed up sputum with a little blood mixed in; this is normal. It hurts some to cough, but it will get better on day 3. They got me up to walk around the floor slowly and that felt good! It still hurt some, but again, normal. My doctors saw me several hours after surgery and twice on day two. Dr Alberton was superb, both in explaining the surgery, what to expect, and post op! I laughed and joked with everyone, while rolling me into the operating room at Providence in Everett, WA. An impressive room! I continued to be in my normal jovial mood after surgery, until leaving late afternoon the next day. My buddy drove me home on my island (live alone), and he stayed the first night to help me and left on day 4. Also came back on day 7 and drove me, to get my stitches out. Dr not too concerned about my abdomen pain, then saw my Thoracic doctor and he told me, if pain gets worse or doesn't go away, call my Dr. Difficult surgery, if nobody around to help, but aimdid the best I could. Do all the exercises, walk for 5 mins 3 times a day, and sleep well. My upper abdomen hurts the most since surgery and still hurts! It has been 18 days...hope my abdomen heals soon. It's a bit better... The Predisone I take has one side affect...cramps in feet and lower legs. I take 40mg's for 30 days, then start taking Methotrexate, while reducing Prednisone by 10 mg's every two weeks. My Pulmonary Doctor has determined I have Sarcoidosis (severe) and my own immune system is attacking healthy nodes in both lungs. My initial diagnosis was Acute Interstitial Pneumonitis, then IIP. Glad I don't have AIP, but Sarcoidosis is no walk in the park! 🤕 He's glad I had a good VAT, for that final diagnosis. First two weeks, you'll be limited physically (normal). I'm taking a bit longer for recovery, but I've push myself a little too much, living alone. Plus...I'm a 100% Disabled Veteran (27 year Army Ranger) I've had worse surgeries, but always keep a great attitude; all of you...do the same! ☺️. You can't stand or sit too long during that time. You'll know, when that time comes (start hurting in chest)! Ha! Keep a good attitude and enjoy the time laying prone and watching TV/iPad stuff! 😄
Dr Alberton started as a heart surgeon for years in New York, changed to Thoracic's and moved to WA, bringing robotic lung surgery to Providence. My second doc also has a great reputation; she was superb! Glad I had such a super team of doctors, nurses, and assistants! I definently recommend them! Not too much on Sarcoidosis, so I will follow up on my progress! If you have questions, feel free to contact me! 🤓 I will pray for all those who have any of these lung conditions and for your speedy recovery! 🙏
56
Rosey
I had broncoscopy and biopsy in Feb, 2015. I didn't even remember that I could have lung collapse on paper. But I did unfortunately on May, 2016 on my right lung scarey that's 15 months , just having a hard time. The biopsy they took from is upper right lobe, lower right lobe, 1mm each and bottom left lobe, 2mm now I'm scared now to have another lung collapse same side or the other one my breathing is different than before, I don't smoke, I weigh 118lb 5ft 4in I'm active hard to think I don't want to get sick, like getting a cold or coughing it might trigger another lung collapse.
57
Pat scott
I had a biopsy to on a nodule in my rrght lung. This was found during a Pet Scan that done after a higher cea level. The Dr wanted to find out if it was malignant. During the needle biopsy I developed an air leak. I was in severe pain and was kept at the hospital for several hours. This happened 10 days ag0 and I still have pain and a constant fever. The fever stays about 100 to 102 all the time. Should I contact my Dr. He said give 2 weeks.
58
Rose
My son had a needle biopsy done 2 weeks a go and they said the results will not be back for 6weeks they sent them to 3 different labs why
59
KEN
Due to have a lung biopsy this friday Jan 3 i have a head cold will they still do the biopsy?

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