COMPLICATIONS OF THE COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY GUIDED TRANSTHORACIC BIOPSY OF THE LUNG

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the frequency of pneumothorax and hemoptysis after computed tomography (CT)-

guided percutaneous co-axial cutting needle biopsy of lung lesions.

Material and Methods: This was a descriptive study of patients who underwent CT guided percutaneous

coaxial cutting needle biopsy of lung lesions at department of Radiology, Postgraduate Medical Institute,

Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar from August 2004 to June 2005. CT scan of the lung at the level of

pleural puncture was taken immediately after biopsy and an X-ray chest in upright position was taken after

04 hours for evidence of pneumothorax. Pneumothorax and hemoptysis were recorded.

Results: Out of 53 patients, 26 (49%) were male and 27 (51%) were female with age ranging from 06-80

years. Of 53 biopsies, in 49 cases tissue sample was sufficient for histological diagnosis (Diagnostic yield

92.45%). Out of 53 biopsies, 32 (60.4%) were histologically malignant, 17 (32.1%) were benign and 4

(7.5%) were non-representative, normal lung tissue or inadequate tissues. Overall complication rate was

9.43% (n=5/53). Hemoptysis occurred in 4/53 (7.45%). Pneumothorax occurred in 1.9% (n=1/53) patients.

No patient required chest tube insertion. There was no major complication or death.

Conclusion: CT guided percutaneous coaxial cutting needle biopsy of the lung lesions is a safe and

effective procedure.