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Lung biopsy is a widely accepted procedure for diagnosing pulmonary disorders by obtaining samples of lung tissue. Besides lung nodules and masses, a wide array of pulmonary disorders, including interstitial lung diseases, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, sarcoidosis, and infections like tuberculosis, can be diagnosed by lung biopsy. This activity outlines the various techniques of lung biopsy, the indications, contraindications, complications, and the role of an integrated interdisciplinary team approach that has been discussed for carrying out various tasks related to the procedure, including nursing assistance and pre-procedure patient education. Objectives: Identify the relevant indications of lung biopsy. Outline the equipment, personnel, preparation, and technique in regards to lung biopsy. Describe the appropriate evaluation of the potential complications and their clinical significance with lung biopsy. Review the importance of interprofessional team strategies to improve outcomes of lung biopsy. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Lung nodules and masses can be challenging at times to diagnose and often require invasive procedures.[1] Lung biopsy is a popular and widely accepted procedure for obtaining samples of lung tissue to diagnose a wide array of pulmonary disorders. Lung tissue can be obtained for histopathological examination via the following methods:[2] Percutaneous Transthoracic Lung Biopsy (PTLB): This type of biopsy may also be referred to as a percutaneous or transthoracic needle biopsy in which a needle is inserted through the chest wall via CT or fluoroscopic guidance into the suspected area to obtain a tissue sample.[1] Open Lung Biopsy (OLB): Surgical removal of lung tissue for histopathological and microbiological analysis under general anesthesia. Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS): Endoscopic removal of lung tissue via the chest wall, which may also be referred to as VATS. Transbronchial Biopsy (TBLB): Biopsy using flexible bronchoscopy via the transnasal or transoral route usually preferred for central (accessible) lesions. Cryobiopsy (Cryo-TBB): Transbronchial cryobiopsy involves freezing and removal of tissue with the use of nitrous oxide and a specialized flexible probe. Recent advances: EBUS (Endobronchial Ultrasound) biopsy, Electromagnectic Navigation Bronchoscopy, Conr Beam CT, Robotic Bronchoscopy. This article aims to review the various techniques of lung biopsy. An integrated interdisciplinary team approach has been discussed for carrying out various tasks related to the procedure, including nursing assistance and pre-procedure patient education.

Events like massive hemoptysis, pulmonary hemorrhage, pulmonary venous air embolism, and a large hemothorax cause mortality from PTLB. Pneumothorax (most common complication), pulmonary hemorrhage, hemothorax, cardiac tamponade, and seeding along with the needle tract cause morbidity.[3] In a transbronchial biopsy, reaction to the topical anesthetic, ET tube induced trauma, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, hypoventilation, pneumothorax, and hemorrhage are some of the potentially severe complications. Owing to its safety profile, a faster recovery period, and lesser complications, VATS has largely replaced open thoracotomies worldwide. However, potential complications following VATS include post-op pain and air leak, hypoxemia, atelectasis, bleeding, and wound infection.[7]