This page gives you information about aftercare following your lung/pleural biopsy.

What to expect after your biopsy

You can eat and drink normally after your CT scan. We recommend that you drink plenty of fluids for the following 2 to 3 days.

The results of the CT scan will be sent to the doctor who requested the test. The doctor will contact you to arrange a follow-up appointment.

If you experience any of the following it is important that you contact the Radiology Nurses, 111 or A&E department:

Possible risks

What to look for Possible complications Frequency Actions to take
Bruising Common Simple pain relief
Swelling and pain around the site of the biopsy Haematoma Rare Apply a cold compress
such as an ice pack wrapped in a tea towel.
Take simple pain relief such as paracetamol to relieve any pain. If the swelling or pain does not improve over the next few days telephone the Radiology Nurses.
Breathlessn ess or
severe chest
pain
Pneumothorax (leakage
of air around lung)
Infrequent Attend the
nearest Emergency Department straight away
Swelling over the biopsy site with
redness, fever or
chills
Infection of
the biopsy site
Rare During working
hours, telephone the Radiology Nurses for advice. Out of hours call NHS 111. Do not ignore this symptom
Coughing up a small
amount of
blood
Blood in your spittle or mucous Uncommon This
should settle over 2 to 3 days.

If you experience any other symptoms you should contact your GP for advice.

Contact information

If you have any problems or questions, please contact the Radiology Nurses.

Radiology Nurses

Tel: 0300 422 6245

Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm

Alternately you can you contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice.

NHS 111

Tel: 111

Printable version of this page

CT guided lung biopsy aftercare GHPI1512_01_21 Department: Radiology Review due: January 2024 PDF, 394.4 KB, 2 pages
Reference number GHPI1512_01_21
Department Radiology
Review due January 2024