If the lesion is on the wall of an airway, the tissue can be washed with a saline solution and suctioned or brushed with a soft brush. If the lesion is not easily accessible on the airway wall, a needle biopsy or a forceps biopsy may be done. A needle biopsy involves using a small needle tool to collect cells on the other side of the airway wall. A forceps biopsy involves using forceps to sample an area of tissue. If the SPN is deep within the lung, a technique called fluoroscopy may be used during the bronchoscopy.
Fluoroscopy involves using x-rays to examine tissues and guide the biopsy.
This combination of techniques provides the best sample of cells. As in any medical procedure, there are potential complications. The complications of this particular procedure are rare and usually minor. The deaths were reportedly due to inappropriate sedation. Transthoracic needle biopsy is a technique to diagnose lung cancer that has been used for over 100 years.