CT-guided biopsy
A lung biopsy involves removing a tiny sample of the lung, which is then sent to the laboratory for further tests. This will give the doctor more information about the lung disease, which will be helpful in making decisions about treatment.
Before the biopsy, patients are given a local anaesthetic to numb the area and then a fine needle is inserted through the chest into the lung to remove a tiny sample of lung tissue. The procedure is uncomfortable but not painful and takes about 30 minutes. Patients are required to rest in on the ward for four to six hours after the procedure.
Last updated23 Jan 2007