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Lungs
Lungs
Incision for pleural tissue biopsy
Incision for pleural tissue biopsy
Pleural cavity
Pleural cavity

Open pleural biopsy
Definition:

The pleura is the membrane lining the chest cavity and covers the lungs. In the open pleural biopsy, the sample to be examined is obtained by an incision through the chest wall.
Alternative Names:
Biopsy - open pleura

How the test is performed:

This procedure is done in the hospital under general anesthesia. An incision is made in the chest after an endotracheal tube has been inserted. A sample is taken from the pleura (lung membrane) under direct observation. After the sample is obtained, a chest tube is placed and the incision is closed with stitches.
How to prepare for the test:
You must sign a consent form. You will not be able to have food or fluid 8 hours before the test.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How the test will feel:

You will be asleep during the procedure. There will be some tenderness and pain at the site of the incision afterwards. You may have a sore throat after the test.
Why the test is performed:

A larger sample can be taken with open biopsy than can be obtained by a pleural needle biopsy. The procedure is done when no body fluids are in the pleura, or a direct view of the pleura and the lungs is necessary.
Normal Values:
The pleura will be normal.
What abnormal results mean:
Abnormal findings can indicate tuberculosis or neoplasm (abnormal growths). Viral, fungal, or parasitic diseases may also be detected.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
What the risks are:

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

Special considerations:
Not applicable.
Review Date: 5/29/2001
Reviewed By: William G. Wang, M.D., Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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