What is a transbronchial biopsy?

A transbronchial biopsy involves removing small pieces of tissue from your lung.

What are the benefits?

A transbronchial biopsy is a good way of finding out if there is a problem.

Are there any alternatives?

An x-ray or scan can show that you have a problem but a biopsy will help to find out exactly what is causing the problem.

What does the procedure involve?

The endoscopist may offer you a sedative or painkiller to help you to relax and feel more comfortable.

A transbronchial biopsy usually takes less than 30 minutes. Your doctor will pass a flexible telescope (bronchoscope) through your nose and down into your lungs.

Your doctor will use the bronchoscope to examine your airways.

They will gently push small forceps down one of your airways (a bronchus) into your lung. Your doctor will use the forceps to take samples of lung tissue.

What complications can happen?

• shortness of breath
• bleeding
• pneumothorax, where air escapes into the space around your lung
• developing a high temperature
• developing a sore throat, husky voice or a cough getting worse
• allergic reaction
• death

What happens after the procedure?

You should be able to go home after you have recovered from the sedative.

You should be able to return to work the next day unless you are told otherwise.

The healthcare team will tell you the results of the procedure and talk to you about any treatment or follow-up care you may need.

Regular exercise should improve your long-term health. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

Summary

A transbronchial biopsy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem in your lungs.

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