Image-Guided Lung Biopsy

Before proceeding with lung biopsy, we will perform a clinical assessment which includes reviewing your medical history, blood tests (clotting times and blood count) and imaging test.  

If you are on any blood-thinning medications (antiplatelet and/or anticoagulant), you will be advised on the appropriate timing to stop them.  On the day of the procedure, you will be fasted for 4-6 hours prior to the time of the planned procedure. 

During the procedure, it is important to try to lie still, breathe gently and not cough.  Local anaesthetic is given to numb your skin before a thin needle is passed into the lung.  The local anaesthetic injection may sting initially but this will soon pass.  You may feel a pushing sensation when the actual biopsy is performed.  The procedure usually takes approximately 30-45 minutes.