This is often performed with a system that allows smaller incisions and the aid of video cameras for better visualization. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation with local anesthetic. A small thoracoscope is passed trough the incision to directly visualize the pleura. Biopsy forceps are passed through either a channel in the scope or through a separate incision in the skin to remove tissue samples. Complications with this procedure include a small risk for bleeding and infection.
Pneumothorax is uniformly present and requires a chest tube for a short time after the procedure.
Small samples of lung tissue can be biopsied with this procedure as well. Occasionally open pleural biopsy is performed under general anesthesia. A surgeon makes an incision on the patient's side and enters the pleural space. This allows maximum exploration of the pleural membranes, large sampling of the pleura, and, if needed, of the underlying lung. Find a pulmonologist near you.