Lung Biopsy: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Raghuveer Boddireddy, MD, Interventional Radiology. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Lung Biopsy?
A pulmonologist, a lung doctor, or a chest surgeon commonly performs a lung biopsy, depending on the type. A physician called a pathologist reviews the tissue samples to determine the results. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
A lung biopsy removes a piece of lung tissue for examination. The tissue is looked at under a microscope, which helps doctors diagnose lung conditions, such as cancer or an infection. There are several types of lung biopsies.
- A needle biopsy uses a needle to take the tissue.
- In a bronchoscopy, a thin, flexible tube is passed through the mouth or nose into the airways to collect tissue samples.
- An open lung biopsy is surgery to remove a small piece of tissue from the lung.
Why a doctor might recommend it
A needle biopsy is done when there is an abnormal condition near the surface of the lung, in the lung itself, or on the chest wall. Most often, it is done to check for cancer.
An open lung biopsy is done to evaluate lung problems seen on imaging tests of the lung.
How to prepare
Common steps are listed here.
- Tell your surgeon if you are pregnant, allergic to any medicines, or have a bleeding problem.
- Follow your surgeon's instructions for not eating or drinking before the procedure.
- Follow instructions about not taking medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or blood thinners for a period of time before a needle biopsy. Check with your health care provider before changing or stopping any medicines.
What happens during it
A needle biopsy usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
- A local painkilling medicine is injected.
- Your surgeon makes a small cut in your skin.
- The needle is put into the abnormal tissue, and a small piece of tissue is removed.
You will feel pressure and a brief, sharp pain when the needle touches the lung.
An open lung biopsy is done in the hospital using general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep and pain free. Tissue is taken from the lung and sent to a lab for examination. The wound is closed with stitches.
Recovery
After a needle biopsy, a chest x-ray is taken to check for a collapsed lung. Lab results from a needle biopsy usually take a few days.
After an open lung biopsy, you will feel drowsy for several hours. There will be some tenderness and pain where the cut is.
Risks and side effects
Sometimes a collapsed lung, called a pneumothorax, occurs after a needle biopsy. A chest tube is put in to expand the lung if the collapse is large, there is lung disease already, or it does not improve.
Some bleeding is common, and a provider will monitor the amount of bleeding. In rare cases, major and life-threatening bleeding can occur.
Other risks include infection and mild pain.
Signs of a collapsed lung include blueness of the skin and a rapid heart rate. If you notice these, call your provider right away.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have bleeding that will not stop, trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, or fainting.
Who performs it
A pulmonologist, a lung doctor, or a chest surgeon commonly performs a lung biopsy, depending on the type. It is important to get care from doctors trained in lung biopsies and minimally invasive techniques, when that is right for you.
Common questions
How long does a lung needle biopsy take?
A lung needle biopsy usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Analysis of the sample usually takes a few days.
Does a lung biopsy hurt?
Yes, a lung needle biopsy can hurt for a short time. The anesthetic injection stings for a moment.
Will I need more than one lung biopsy?
Ideally you will need only one biopsy. Sometimes a provider is not able to get enough tissue to give a clear diagnosis. If lung cancer spreads or comes back, some doctors may recommend another biopsy.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Before a lung biopsy, tell your surgeon about all the medicines you take, including herbs and supplements.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Open lung biopsy
- MedlinePlus - Lung needle biopsy
- American Lung Association - Lung Biopsy
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
