Ambulatory Procedure Center

Lung Needle Biopsy

What Is It?

Lung needle biopsy is a procedure where a needle is used to obtain a piece of lung tissue. Biopsies can be taken from either the right or left lung.

How Do I Prepare?

• You may have a light breakfast. Do not eat or drink anything after this.
• Discuss with your doctor what medications you should take.
• If you are taking medication to thin your blood (e.g., Coumadin, Warfarin, Plavix, or aspirin), you should check with your doctor about stopping these medications before this test.
• Medications that your doctor has instructed you to take can be taken with a small amount of water.
• Be sure to arrange transportation. Someone must stay with you at the hospital until discharge and drive you home. Transportation will be verified before the procedure. You may use a taxi cab for your transportation only if you have a person accompanying you other than the taxi cab driver. Your procedure may be cancelled if these arrangements are not made.

What Happens During the Procedure?

• Consent is signed.
• An intravenous needle (IV) is inserted.
• The procedure is done in the x-ray department. This is the best and safest way to view the lung.
• The area is cleansed with an antiseptic solution.
• The area is injected with a medication to numb the area.
• The procedure takes about 5-10 minutes.
• Recovery time is one hour.