A bronchoscopic lung biopsy is a diagnostic procedure in which a small sample of lung tissue or fluid is taken for laboratory examination. It helps detect health issues such as benign or malignant tumors, pneumonia, or lung bleeding. (1)

Quick Facts

  • The procedure allows doctors to diagnose lung diseases accurately.
  • The biopsy is taken using a thin bronchoscope inserted through the mouth or nose into the lungs.
  • It is usually done in an outpatient setting under mild sedation.
  • The procedure takes 20–30 minutes.
  • Risks exist but are rare; bleeding at the biopsy site occurs in less than 1% of cases. (1)(2)

When Is It Needed?

A lung biopsy may be recommended in cases such as: (3)

  1. Chronic cough: Persistent cough unresponsive to standard treatments may require biopsy to find the underlying cause.
  2. Severe pneumonia: To determine the cause and guide treatment.
  3. Suspicious lung lesions on imaging: If X-ray or CT scan shows abnormal areas, a biopsy is the most accurate way to determine whether the lesion is cancerous.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit our clinic, where our team explains the procedure and answers all questions.

How to Prepare

Before the biopsy, your doctor will provide instructions, which generally include: (4)

  • Stopping certain medications, especially blood thinners or aspirin, for a period before the procedure.
  • Fasting for several hours before the biopsy.
  • Arranging transportation home after the procedure due to sedation effects.

How Is the Procedure Done?

  1. You lie on a table with your head slightly elevated.
  2. An IV is placed for sedation and any necessary medications.
  3. A local anesthetic spray is applied to the nose or mouth.
  4. The bronchoscope is carefully inserted through the nose or mouth into the lungs—you may feel mild discomfort.
  5. Tissue samples are taken through the bronchoscope without causing pain. Additional procedures may be performed if needed. (4)

After the Biopsy

  • You will be monitored for a few hours to ensure stability before going home.
  • Temporary side effects may include:

  • Numbness or tingling in the mouth and throat for a few hours
  • Sore throat, cough, or hoarseness for about a day
  • Mild blood-tinged sputum is normal; contact your doctor if it persists over 24 hours or is heavy
  • Avoid eating or drinking until the sedation effect fully wears off.
  • Follow all post-procedure instructions carefully. (1)(5)

Possible Risks

Although generally safe, bronchoscopic lung biopsy may rarely cause: (5)

  • Severe bleeding
  • Pneumonia
  • Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Blood in sputum or nasal discharge lasting over 24 hours
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Chest pain or shortness of breath
  • Fever above 38°C lasting over 24 hours
  • Dizziness

When Are Results Available?

Biopsy results are usually available within 1–2 weeks, depending on the laboratory. (4)




References

  1. Columbia University - Guide to Bronchoscopy / Lung Biopsy
  2. Cancer Research UK - Bronchoscopy
  3. University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire - Bronchoscopy and cryotherapy for lung biopsy
  4. Cleveland Clinic - Bronchoscopy
  5. ACS - Bronchoscopy