Open pleural biopsy

Definition

An open pleural biopsy is a procedure to remove and examine the tissue that lines the inside of the chest. This tissue is called the pleura.

Alternative Names

Why the Test is Performed

This procedure is used when the surgeon needs a larger piece of tissue than that which can be removed with a pleural needle biopsy.

It is also performed when there are no body fluids in the pleura or when a direct view of the pleura and the lungs is necessary.

This procedure may also be done to examine a metastatic pleural tumor.

How the Test is Performed

An open pleural biopsy is done in the hospital using general anesthesia, which means you are asleep and do not feel pain during the surgery. A tube will be placed down your throat to help you breathe.

The surgeon will make a cut in the left or right side of the chest. A piece of tissue is taken from the chest area, and sent to a laboratory for examination. After surgery, the wound is closed with stitches.

How to Prepare for the Test

You will be asked not to eat or drink for 8 hours before the test.

How the Test Will Feel

You will be asleep during the procedure. There will be some tenderness and pain where the surgical cut is located. You may have a sore throat after the test due to the breathing tube.

Risks

There is a slight chance of excessive loss of blood, an air leak, or injury to the lung.

Normal Results

The pleura will be normal.

What Abnormal Results Mean

Abnormal findings may suggest:

• Tuberculosis
• Neoplasms (abnormal growth of tissue)
• Disease due to a virus, fungus, or parasite