About Pleural Biopsy

Causes: Pleural biopsies are performed to diagnose or rule out various conditions affecting the pleura, including pleural mesothelioma, pleuritis, pleural effusion, and metastatic cancer. This procedure is recommended when imaging studies indicate abnormalities in the pleural lining that require further evaluation.

Symptoms: While the biopsy itself does not typically cause symptoms, some individuals may experience mild stiffness or discomfort at the biopsy site afterward. In rare instances, complications such as bleeding, infection, or lung collapse (pneumothorax) may occur.

Remedies: Prescription pain relievers are often effective for managing post-procedural discomfort. If complications arise, medical interventions such as observation, medications, or additional procedures may be necessary to address issues like bleeding or infection. Promptly reporting any unusual symptoms to healthcare professionals is crucial for effective management.

Procedure of Pleural Biopsy

Preparation: Prior to the biopsy, the patient undergoes a comprehensive evaluation, which includes a review of their medical history and relevant imaging tests to determine the necessity of the procedure.

Anesthesia: Depending on the selected biopsy method and patient preference, either general anesthesia (to induce unconsciousness) or local anesthesia (to numb the biopsy site) is administered before the procedure.

Biopsy Method Selection: The healthcare provider considers factors such as the location and size of the abnormality, the patient’s overall health, and their preferences when selecting the most appropriate biopsy technique. Common methods include thoracoscopy, image-guided needle biopsy, and open surgical biopsy.

Positioning: To facilitate access to the pleura, the patient is typically positioned lying on their side with the affected side facing up.

Guidance: The medical professional uses imaging techniques such as ultrasound or CT scans to guide the biopsy tool to the targeted area of the pleura.

Sample Collection: A small sample of pleural tissue is obtained using the chosen biopsy method. During a thoracoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a camera and instruments is inserted through a small incision in the chest wall to view and biopsy the pleura. In a needle biopsy, a thin needle is used to collect tissue through the skin or chest wall.

Post-procedure Care: After the biopsy, patients are closely monitored for any potential complications, such as bleeding or pneumothorax. Depending on the specifics of the procedure, patients may either be kept for observation or allowed to go home the same day. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to discuss the biopsy results and any further care needed.