After your CT-guided Lung Biopsy
You had a biopsy done on a nodule in your (right/left) lung on ______________.
Dr. ___________________ performed the biopsy.
What should I expect after the biopsy?
- Soreness at the entry site. You can take Tylenol® or ibuprofen as needed for the next couple of days.
- Coughing up blood-tinged sputum for up to 3 days.
- Bruising at the entry site.
How should I care for myself after I go home?
- Rest and do not do any strenuous activities (i.e. heavy lifting or cardiovascular activity). You may return to your normal routine after 24 hours. Do not do strenuous activities for 5-7 days.
- You may eat your normal diet. No alcohol for 24 hours.
- No smoking for the first 24 hours.
- You may remove the bandage and shower the morning after the procedure.
- Airplane travel is not recommended for 2-3 weeks after the procedure.
When should I call the doctor or nurse?
IMPORTANT
If you have significant shortness of breath or can't seem to catch your breath, you should go to the nearest emergency room right away. Tell them that you recently had a lung biopsy. This can be a symptom of a delayed pneumothorax, (lung collapse). It can be a life-threatening complication. Have them contact us right away if they have any questions.
What symptoms should I watch for?
- If the biopsy site will not stop bleeding.
- If you have pain at the biopsy site that is getting worse after 2-3 days.
- If you have a significant increase in sputum in the 24 hours after the procedure.
- If you cough up more than a teaspoon of blood.
- If you have a temperature greater that 101 F.
Phone numbers
For questions or problems during the day, please call our clinic nurse at 608-263-0693.
On weekends or after 5 p.m. call the paging operator at 608-262-0486. Ask for the Senior Radiology Resident on-call. Tell them the name of the doctor who did the procedure. Leave your name and phone number with the area code. A doctor will call you back.
If you live out of the area, call 1-800-323-8942.
Results of your biopsy are almost always ready within 48 business hours. This does not include the weekend or holidays. If you have not heard from the doctor that ordered the lung biopsy by that time, call his or her office to ask about the result.
More instructions
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The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 05/19/2011
Copyright © 05/19/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#7215
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