Transbronchial biopsy provides lung tissue for the histological diagnosis of parenchymal lung diseases.
Transbronchial biopsy is usually performed with fluorscopic control because the forceps should approach to within 2 cm of the pleura.
The closed forceps are advanced until gentle resistance is felt and then withdrawn 3 cm. During expiration the forceps are opened and advanced until gentle resistance is felt. The forceps are closed, and provided the patient does not complain of pleuritic pain, the biopsy is taken.
Four biopsies should be taken to improve the diagnostic yield. Biopsies should only be taken from one lung because of the possibility of inducing a pneumothorax.
All patients should have a chest radiograph before discharge.
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