8 Common Risks and Complications of Lung Biopsy – What a Pulmonologist in Chhattisgarh Wants You to Know

A lung biopsy is considered one of the major diagnosing tests for lung diseases including lung cancer, infection, and an inflammatory condition. Though it is very effective for the purpose of diagnosis, it also has some risks or complications. Understanding the risks might prove beneficial in case you contemplate a lung biopsy. Consulting the Best Pulmonologist in Raipur gives the guarantee that the procedure will be done with maximum precision that reduces the complications and gives accurate results.

This article talks about eight common risks and complications of a lung biopsy and how a Pulmonologist in Raipur can help you minimize them.

1. Bleeding (Hemorrhage)

The commonest risk associated with a lung biopsy is hemorrhage. This is simply due to the high vascularity of the lungs, and biopsy needle insertion or surgical incision may cause bleeding.

The risk is dependent upon the type of lung biopsy:

Transbronchial Biopsy: Low to moderate hemorrhagic risk.

Needle Biopsy (CT-guided or Ultrasound-guided): Moderate hemorrhagic risk, especially if it is a deeper lung tissue.

It is riskier because incision into lung tissue is direct.

How to Minimize the Risk:

✅ Selecting a qualified Pulmonologist in Raipur for conducting the procedure.

✅ Refrain from using blood thinning medicines like aspirin or warfarin before the biopsy.

✅ It is monitored at all times for early diagnosis of any abnormal bleeding during and after the procedure.

2. Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)

The leakage of air into the space between the lung and the chest wall leads to pneumothorax, which causes partial or complete collapse of the lung. It is the most common complication in needle biopsies where the biopsy needle punctures the lung tissue.

Some symptoms reported are as follows:

Sharp chest pain

Shortness of breath

Increased heart rate

How to Reduce the Risk:

✅ Imaging guidance, whether CT or ultrasound, makes the localization of the biopsy needle quite easy.

✅ Oxygen saturation and a chest X-ray are also monitored after the biopsy to determine lung collapse.

✅ The smaller cases of pneumothorax can resolve on their own, but severe cases might necessitate a chest tube to suck out entrapped air.

3. Infection

Since it hurts the natural protective barrier of the human body, the lung biopsy site is prone to potential infection. A bacterial or viral infection can arise either in the biopsy site or in the lung.

The common symptoms are:

Fever and chills

Persistent cough

Increased mucus production

Precautions Against Risk:

✅ The Best Pulmonologist in Raipur keeps the surroundings clean to prevent infection.

✅ Antibiotics may be given before or after the procedure if necessary.

✅ Aftercare and follow-up of the procedure should help in the early diagnosis of infection.

4. Difficulty in Breathing

During a lung biopsy, a few patients face difficulties in breathing.

This has been typically associated with:

Lung irritation by the biopsy needle.

Accumulation of fluid and air in the lungs.

Existing lung diseases like COPD or asthma.

How to Take the Risk Away:

✅ A Pulmonologist in Raipur examines the lung function before the biopsy.

✅ Oxygen assistance is given if there is a breathing problem.

✅ Patients are advised to rest and not engage in severe exertion after the procedure.

5. Coughing up Blood (Hemoptysis)

Tiny amounts of blood can be coughed up after performing a lung biopsy. It is rare, but in some instances, excessive bleeding occurs with the procedure. This is due to the fact that the lung's blood vessels are injured by the biopsy.

✅ Pre-procedure imaging helps identify high-risk blood vessels to avoid during the biopsy.

✅ The Best Pulmonologist in Raipur uses precise techniques to minimize vascular damage.

✅ If severe bleeding occurs, a bronchoscopy may be performed to control bleeding.

6. Pain and Discomfort

Some degree of pain is almost always expected following a lung biopsy, especially if it is performed with a surgical incision or deep tissue sampling. Pain can occur in the site of the biopsy or within the lungs, particularly when taking deep breaths or coughing.

How to Reduce the Risk:

✅Over-the-counter pain medications as prescribed by your pulmonologist.

✅ Rest and avoiding strenuous activities for a few days.

✅ Visit the Best Pulmonologist in Chhattisgarh if pain remains.

7. Allergic Reactions to Anesthesia or Contrast Dye

For biopsies that require local anesthesia or contrast dye, patients can develop allergic reactions.

Symptoms include:

Rash or itching

Swelling of the face or throat

Trouble breathing

How to Avoid:

✅ Inform your Pulmonologist in Raipur of any known allergies before the biopsy.

✅ Anesthesia or dye test dose can be given for checking allergic responses.

✅ Emergency measures are always available for handling dangerous allergic responses.

8. Misdiagnosis or Inconclusive Results

It is sometimes the case that a lung biopsy fails to make a sure diagnosis.

Misdiagnosis or re biopsy could happen due to the following:

The sample taken is too small or misses the affected area.

The biopsy is taken from inaccessible parts of the lungs.

Tissue samples do not reveal visible evidence of disease.

What to Do to Minimize the Risk:

✅ The Best Pulmonologist in Chhattisgarh utilizes high-resolution imaging for targeted tissue collection.

✅ More than one tissue sample may be collected for enhanced diagnostic confirmation.

✅ A repeat biopsy or additional tests such as bronchoscopy may be advised if necessary.

Conclusion

A lung biopsy is a very good diagnostic procedure; however, no medical intervention comes without risks. But with the right Pulmonologist in Raipur, it can be a safe and efficient procedure. For any lung biopsy, Vidya Hospital is regarded as the best Pulmonologist in Chhattisgarh, with modern technology, top pulmonologists, and caring for patients at every step, ensuring accurate diagnosis and successful results.

Always seek a qualified Pulmonologist in Raipur before undergoing a lung biopsy to understand the benefits, risks, and necessary precautions for a smooth recovery.