Our Summary

This research paper is about a study that was conducted to see if a certain medical procedure, known as thoracoscopic transdiaphragmatic approach, could be used to take biopsy samples from all parts of the lung in a minimally invasive way. This procedure was tested on ten rabbits.

In this procedure, a camera was inserted through the diaphragm, and instruments were inserted between the 7th and 9th ribs (intercostal spaces or ICS). A loop ligature, a type of surgical knot, was placed to take samples from the lower part of the lung and to simulate taking samples from other parts of the lung.

The study found that this procedure worked well for taking samples from the top part of the lower lobe of the right lung and the accessory lobe (a small extra lobe found in some animals) at the 9th rib. It also worked well for taking samples from the top and middle lobes of the right lung at the 7th rib. However, it was not possible to take samples from the back and lower parts of the lower lobe of the right lung using this method.

In conclusion, the study found that this method is a promising technique for taking lung biopsy samples, but it is not suitable for all parts of the lung. It also helped determine the best rib space to use for taking samples from each lobe of the right lung.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of the thoracoscopic transdiaphragmatic approach for lung biopsy?
  2. Which intercostal space (ICS) is optimal for biopsy of each lung lobe?
  3. Was the thoracoscopic transdiaphragmatic approach successful for all lung lobe biopsies?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung biopsy is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the healthcare team, such as fasting before the procedure and stopping certain medications as advised. It is also important to inform the healthcare team about any allergies or medical conditions before the biopsy. After the procedure, it is important to follow post-operative care instructions, such as taking prescribed medications and avoiding strenuous activities until cleared by the doctor. It is also important to keep the biopsy site clean and dry to prevent infection. If any unusual symptoms occur, such as increased pain, fever, or difficulty breathing, it is important to contact the healthcare team immediately.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended for lung biopsy typically include those with:

  1. Suspicion of lung cancer or other lung diseases: Lung biopsies are often recommended for patients with suspicious lung nodules, masses, or other abnormalities that may indicate lung cancer or other lung diseases.

  2. Evaluation of interstitial lung diseases: Lung biopsies may be recommended for patients with interstitial lung diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, or hypersensitivity pneumonitis to determine the underlying cause of the disease.

  3. Evaluation of lung infections: Lung biopsies may be recommended for patients with suspected lung infections such as tuberculosis, fungal infections, or other atypical infections that are not responding to standard treatments.

  4. Evaluation of pulmonary nodules: Lung biopsies may be recommended for patients with pulmonary nodules that are found incidentally on imaging studies and require further evaluation to determine if they are benign or malignant.

  5. Monitoring of lung transplant patients: Lung biopsies may be recommended for patients who have undergone lung transplant to monitor for signs of rejection or other complications.

Overall, lung biopsies are recommended for patients who require further evaluation of lung abnormalities to determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Timeline

Before lung biopsy:

  1. Patient presents with symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
  2. Patient undergoes imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to identify abnormalities in the lungs.
  3. Biopsy is recommended by a healthcare provider based on imaging results.
  4. Patient may undergo other tests such as blood tests or pulmonary function tests to assess lung function.
  5. Patient meets with a specialist to discuss the procedure and potential risks.

After lung biopsy:

  1. Patient is prepped for the procedure, which may involve fasting and stopping certain medications.
  2. Patient undergoes the thoracoscopic transdiaphragmatic lung biopsy procedure, which involves making small incisions in the chest and using a camera and instruments to obtain tissue samples.
  3. Biopsy samples are sent to a lab for analysis to determine the presence of any abnormalities such as cancer.
  4. Patient may experience some pain or discomfort at the biopsy site and may be prescribed pain medication.
  5. Patient receives follow-up care and instructions for monitoring for any complications such as infection or bleeding.
  6. Results of the biopsy are discussed with the patient by the healthcare provider, and further treatment options may be recommended based on the findings.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of the lung biopsy?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure?
  3. How will the biopsy results be used to inform my treatment plan?
  4. How long will it take to recover from the biopsy procedure?
  5. Will I need any follow-up tests or appointments after the biopsy?
  6. How should I prepare for the biopsy procedure?
  7. Will I be sedated or receive anesthesia during the biopsy?
  8. How soon will I receive the results of the biopsy?
  9. What are the alternative options to a lung biopsy in my case?
  10. How experienced is the medical team in performing thoracoscopic transdiaphragmatic lung biopsies?

Reference

Authors: Wittmaack MCN, Barros FFPDC, Silva PDES, Matsui A, Sembenelli G, Mariano RSG, Teixeira PPM, Moraes PC. Journal: Acta Cir Bras. 2020 Jul 3;35(5):e202000501. doi: 10.1590/s0102-865020200050000001. PMID: 32638842