To inspect abnormalities in the lung that require surgical biopsy. To obtain lung tissue for examination to confirm or rule out lung diseases, including cancer. To investigate causes of unexplained fluid in the pleural cavity. Risks and precautions Risks of surgery and general anesthesia. Avoid eating and drinking for 12 hours before the procedure.
General anesthesia is administered and preparations are made for chest surgery.
Prior to the test, you will have a chest X-ray , electrocardiogram, and various blood tests. An arterial blood gas and a pulmonary function test may also be done. An incision is made between two ribs near the breast bone. The abnormal area of the lung is identified. Small wedges of lung tissue are removed for microscopic and laboratory examination.