Complications of percutaneous chest biopsy

Percutaneous lung biopsy is one of the most common procedures performed in radiology departments and the minimally invasive gold standard for the histopathologic investigation of lung masses. Compared with other percutaneous biopsy procedures, lung biopsy carries a higher risk of potential complications, including occasional reports of death. Radiologists should be able to quickly recognize complications, provide required acute care, manage the patient to complete resolution, and obtain a consultation from colleagues in surgery and medicine when indicated. To this end, standing protocols for the performance of lung biopsy and the management of complications such as pneumothorax should be in place prior to performing percutaneous lung biopsy.