This leaflet has been written to provide information about a procedure to obtain a sample of tissue from the lungs for examination (Open Lung Biopsy). We hope it answers some of the questions or concerns you may have about the procedure. It is not intended to replace talking with medical or nursing staff.
What is an Open Lung Biopsy?
An Open Lung Biopsy is a procedure performed to obtain a sample of lung tissue for further examination.
How is it done?
You will be given a general anaesthetic and therefore will be asleep during the procedure. Once you are asleep your doctor will make an incision in your side, extending through to your back over the lung. A sample of lung tissue is removed and the incision is closed using dissolvable stitches. During the procedure a chest drain is inserted to allow drainage of fluid and to aid expansion of your lung. This will be removed prior to discharge.
How long does it take?
The procedure takes approximately 1 hour although this can vary.
Will I have any pain or discomfort following the procedure?
You may feel some discomfort after the procedure but you will be given medication to help control this. There are various pain control methods which can be used to relieve pain following surgery and this will be discussed with you prior to the procedure. If you are in any pain you should inform the staff.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
You may be invited to a pre admission clinic prior to your admission date, to prepare you for your procedure. Normally you will be admitted to hospital the day before or the morning of the procedure. If you haven’t already had investigations at pre admission clinic, you may need to have a chest x-ray, a heart tracing (ECG), routine blood tests and a breathing test. You will be given an antiseptic wash to use before the procedure to help prevent infection. You will be informed when to stop eating and drinking prior to the procedure.
What are the benefits of having the procedure?
Open Lung Biopsies can provide your doctor with important information which may help to diagnose or rule out certain lung conditions and can help your doctor determine the best treatment options.
What are the risks involved?
As with any procedure there is a small risk of complications; There is a small risk of bleeding and infection at the incision site.
There is also a risk of the lung collapsing during the procedure. If this happens you may require treatment to reinflate the lung. Any risks involved with the procedure will be discussed with you in more detail before you sign a consent form.
What alternatives do I have?
This depends on your symptoms and your condition. Other procedures that obtain samples of lung tissue include needle biopsies and Bronchoscopies (this involves passing a scope down your throat in order to examine the airway and lungs and obtain a sample of lung tissue).
Your doctor would be happy to discuss any alternative procedures if they are applicable to you.
What can I expect after the procedure?
Following the procedure you will be taken to a recovery room in theatre and closely monitored until you are awake. You will then return to the ward where staff will continue to monitor you regularly. You will have a chest x –ray and you may need to wear an oxygen mask for a few hours. Staff will inform you when you are able to eat and drink. Any chest drains will be removed by staff on the ward when they have stopped draining fluid and air.
When can I resume normal activities?
You may be able to go home a few days after the procedure. You will be given information about how to care for your wound. You should not drive for 1 week and you should take at least 1 week off work. You will be reviewed as an outpatient after the procedure and you will be given the results of the biopsy by your consultant or one of his team.
This advice will be discussed with you in more detail before you go home and you will be given a discharge advice sheet.
Useful Contact Numbers
- www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
- www.lunguk.org www.dipex.org
- The British Lung foundation North West on 0151 228 4723
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