You had a needle biopsy done on a lung. In this procedure, a hollow needle takes samples of your lung tissue. The tissue is then looked at under a microscope. There are several different types of needle biopsies. Two types are:
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Fine needle aspiration. A small amount of tissue is withdrawn (aspirated) using a very fine needle.
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Core biopsy. A larger needle is used to take tissue samples for exam.
A biopsy needle is put through your skin into your chest and lung. This is called a transthoracic approach, which means across or through the chest (thorax). Imaging scans are done at the same time. These help your health care provider find the spot where they would like to sample tissue. Needle biopsies don't need cuts into the body like open biopsies.
Your provider will use the results of your biopsy to help diagnose your health problem.
Home care
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The biopsy site may feel numb for a while if you get numbing medicine.
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You might have a little soreness afterward.
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Follow your health care provider's instructions about taking off bandages and showering or bathing.
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You may be sleepy after the biopsy if you get medicine to help you relax (sedation). Don't drive until the next day or as instructed by your provider.
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Don't do heavy lifting, a lot of stair climbing, vigorous exercise, or sports on the day of your biopsy. You can return to your regular activities as instructed by your provider.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your health care provider, or as advised. Be sure you make an appointment with your provider to talk about the biopsy results.
When to call your doctor
Contact your health care provider right away if:
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You get an infection. You might have redness, pain, swelling, or drainage at the site of your biopsy.
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You have bleeding at the site of your biopsy.
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You are coughing up blood. This may be only a small amount.
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You have a fever of
100.4 °F (38 °C) or higher, or as advised by your provider.
Call 911
Call
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You have shortness of breath, pain with breathing, or trouble breathing. These could be signs of a collapsed lung (pneumothorax). This means that air from your lungs leaks out into the spaces between your lungs and chest wall.
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You have a fast heart rate.
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You have sharp pains in your chest or shoulder.
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Your fingernails, lips, or skin turn blue, purple, or gray.
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You have trouble walking or talking.
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You feel faint or dizzy.
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You have severe bleeding or are coughing up large amounts of blood.
Online Medical Reviewer: Chris Southard RN
Online Medical Reviewer: David A Kaufman MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed: 01/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
