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Lung Biopsy

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A lung biopsy, Opens dialog removes a small piece of lung tissue that can be looked at under a microscope. The biopsy can be done in several ways. The method used depends on where the sample will be taken from and your overall health. Methods are:

Bronchoscopic biopsy.

A lighted tool called a bronchoscope is inserted through the mouth or nose and into the airway to remove a lung tissue sample. This method may be used if an infectious disease is suspected, if the abnormal lung tissue is located next to the breathing tubes (bronchi), or before trying more invasive methods, such as an open lung biopsy.

Needle biopsy.
A long needle is inserted through the chest wall to remove a sample of lung tissue. This method is used if the abnormal lung tissue is close to the chest wall. A computed tomography (CT) scan, Opens dialog, an ultrasound, Opens dialog, or fluoroscopy, Opens dialog is usually used to guide the needle to the abnormal tissue.
Open biopsy.

This method uses surgery to make a cut (incision) between the ribs and remove a sample of lung tissue. It is usually done when the other methods of lung biopsy have not been successful or can't be used, or when a larger piece of lung tissue is needed for a diagnosis.

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

VATS uses a scope (called a thoracoscope) passed through a small incision in the chest to remove a sample of lung tissue.

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Why It Is Done

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.