Our Summary

This research paper investigated the effectiveness and safety of using a special type of CT scan to guide lung biopsies. More specifically, it looked at using the patient’s own blood to seal the area where the needle was inserted, to prevent complications such as air leakage from the lung (pneumothorax), which can lead to a collapsed lung.

The researchers analyzed data from over a thousand patients who underwent this procedure between 2006 and 2020. They found that the method was very effective, with nearly 94% of the biopsies providing useful diagnostic information.

When the blood patching technique was used, there were fewer complications that required further treatment. In fact, only about 6% of patients who received blood patches needed additional interventions, compared to about 14% of those who didn’t get the patches.

The study also found that the technique of using a blood patch to seal the needle hole was effective in treating patients who developed a pneumothorax after their biopsy. This method was able to avoid the need for inserting a chest tube - a more invasive procedure - in over 80% of cases.

The only significant risk factor for complications was having a history of emphysema, a lung condition that causes shortness of breath.

In conclusion, using a patient’s own blood to seal the needle hole during a lung biopsy guided by CT scan was found to be safe and effective, and it reduced the need for more invasive treatments.

FAQs

  1. What is the diagnostic yield of CT fluoroscopy-guided core lung biopsies?
  2. How effective is parenchymal blood patching in reducing complications after a lung biopsy?
  3. What is the most significant risk factor for complications requiring intervention after a lung biopsy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung biopsy is to follow all pre-procedure instructions carefully, including fasting before the biopsy and informing the healthcare team about any medications or allergies. It is also important to have someone available to drive you home after the procedure and to follow up with your doctor for post-procedure care and monitoring. Additionally, staying well-hydrated and avoiding strenuous activities for a few days after the biopsy can help in the recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for lung biopsy include those with suspicious lung nodules or masses identified on imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans. These nodules or masses may be indicative of lung cancer, infections, or other lung diseases. Other patients who may undergo lung biopsy include those with unexplained lung symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain, as well as those who have a history of smoking or other risk factors for lung disease. Additionally, patients with known lung conditions such as emphysema may also be recommended for lung biopsy to further evaluate their lung health.

Timeline

Before lung biopsy:

  • Patient undergoes a consultation with a healthcare provider to discuss the need for a lung biopsy and the risks and benefits associated with the procedure.
  • Patient may undergo imaging tests such as a CT scan to locate the precise location of the lung lesion.
  • Patient may be instructed to stop taking certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding.
  • On the day of the biopsy, patient may be asked to fast for a certain period of time.

After lung biopsy:

  • Patient is monitored for a period of time in the recovery area to check for any immediate complications such as bleeding or pneumothorax.
  • Patient may experience some pain or discomfort at the biopsy site, which can be managed with pain medication.
  • Patient may be advised to avoid strenuous activities for a period of time to allow the biopsy site to heal.
  • Results of the biopsy are typically available within a few days to a week, and the healthcare provider will discuss the findings with the patient and recommend appropriate treatment options.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about lung biopsy may include:

  1. What is the purpose of the lung biopsy procedure?
  2. How will the biopsy be performed and what can I expect during the procedure?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the lung biopsy?
  4. How will the doctor ensure my safety during and after the biopsy procedure?
  5. What is the expected recovery time after the biopsy?
  6. How soon will I receive the results of the biopsy and how will they be communicated to me?
  7. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional tests after the biopsy?
  8. Are there any specific instructions or restrictions I should follow before or after the biopsy?
  9. What are the possible treatment options or next steps depending on the results of the biopsy?
  10. Do I need to make any preparations before the biopsy, such as fasting or stopping certain medications?

Reference

Authors: Zlevor AM, Mauch SC, Knott EA, Pickhardt PJ, Mankowski Gettle L, Mao L, Meyer CA, Hartung MP, Kim DH, Lubner MG, Hinshaw JL, Foltz ML, Ziemlewicz TJ, Lee FT Jr. Journal: J Vasc Interv Radiol. 2021 Sep;32(9):1319-1327. doi: 10.1016/j.jvir.2021.06.022. Epub 2021 Jul 3. PMID: 34229043