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Updated: Jun 1, 2026

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Published on: January 30, 2026
Complications of CT-guided percutaneous needle biopsy of the chest: prevention and management
Carol C Wu1, Michael M Maher, Jo-Anne O Shepard
1Department of Radiology, Division of Thoracic Imaging and Intervention, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Founders 202, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Objective:
The objective of this article is to describe potential complications of percutaneous needle biopsy of the chest, discuss the risk factors associated with the development of complications, and explain how to prevent complications and manage complications when they occur.
Conclusion:
Pneumothorax and pulmonary hemorrhage are the most common complications of percutaneous needle biopsy of the chest, whereas air embolism and tumor seeding are extremely rare. Attention to biopsy planning and technique and postprocedural care help to prevent or minimize most potential complications.
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