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A lung biopsy is a procedure that involves removing a very small sample of lung tissue to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Your doctor may ask you to have a lung biopsy if something out of the ordinary is spotted on your chest X-ray or CT scan. The goal of this procedure is to create an accurate diagnosis.
A lung biopsy can be used to:
Determine whether a lung muss is benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous)
Stage lung cancer
Identify the cause of inflammation in the lung
Monitor the progression of lung disease
Investigate the cause of unexplained fluid collection
Diagnose a lung infection.
There may be other reasons for your doctor to recommend a lung biopsy.
There are several types of lung biopsy. The type of biopsy performed depends on various factors, such as the type of lung problem, the location of the lesion, and your overall health.
Lung Needle Biopsy (Transthoracic Biopsy)
Lung needle biopsy is typically performed when abnormal tissue has developed near the chest wall. This type of lung biopsy uses a needle that is guided through the chest wall into the suspect area with fluoroscopy (a special type of X-Ray) or computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) to take a small tissue sample from the outer area of the lungs. The needle is usually placed through your chest between two ribs.
During a lung needle biopsy, you will be given a local anesthetic. This means that you will be awake but the affected area will be numbed. A sedative may also be given to help you relax.
Transbronchial Biopsy (Bronchoscopy)
Transbronchial biopsy uses a flexible tube that has a close-focusing telescope on the end for viewing called a fiberoptic bronchoscope. The tube is inserted into your lungs through the nose or mouth. Your doctor may take an X-ray in order to figure out the right spot to do the biopsy.
Numbing medication will be sprayed to the affected area, so you will be awake throughout the procedure. However, you may be given medication through an IV to help you relax. This type of biopsy is done to collect a sample of your lung tissue that is close to the airway.
Thoracoscopic Biopsy (Thoracoscopy)
During this type of lung biopsy, you will be given general anesthesia, your doctor will create three small incisions on your chest between the ribs. Then, a thin, lighted tube with a camera on its end (called an endoscope) is inserted through the incision. Various types of biopsy tools can be inserted through the endoscope to take lung tissue for examination.
Also known as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), this type of lung biopsy checks problems on the outside of your lungs.
Open Lung Biopsy (Limited Thoracotomy)
Open lung biopsy is usually suggested when other methods cannot get cell samples. During this procedure, you will be given a general anesthetic. Your doctor then creates an incision in the skin on your chest and a piece of lung tissue is removed surgically.
If a local anesthetic is used, you should be able to leave the hospital on the same day. For general anesthetic, you may need to stay in the hospital overnight. Since you need to attend a follow-up appointment to discuss the results of the biopsy, it is advisable that you stay in Barbados for about a week.
You will need to take it easy and rest as much as possible for a day or two after lung biopsy. It is important that you avoid strenuous activity for a week. If you have an open biopsy, the recovery time until you can resume your activity may take longer.
Your chest may feel sore for several days and you may need some pain medication to manage your discomfort. Make sure that you only take pain medication that your doctor prescribes since some pain medications, such as aspirin and NSAIDs, increase your risk of bleeding. If you have a wound from the lung biopsy, always follow your doctor’s instructions to clean it.
Lung biopsy is a safe procedure with a high success and accuracy rates. It is reported that percutaneous transthoracic lung needle biopsy has a success rate of 88 to 97%. However, the procedure does carry some risk. These include bleeding, coughing up blood, infection, and collapsed lung.
Lung biopsy is the only procedure that can provide a definite diagnosis of lung cancer. In some cases, your doctor may suggest imaging tests, such as an X-ray or a CT scan. However, even after these tests, your doctor may still ask you to undergo a lung biopsy.
Before you undergo lung biopsy, you and your doctor may not know for sure what is causing your symptoms. Your doctor may also find abnormalities in your chest that they cannot identify. After the procedure, your doctor will be able to make an accurate diagnosis. The results of the biopsy will help you and your doctor create a management or treatment plan for your condition.
Whilst the information presented here has been accurately sourced and verified by a medical professional for its accuracy, it is still advised to consult with your doctor before pursuing a medical treatment at one of the listed medical providers
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Barbados is an island country located in the Caribbean region of North America. This vibrant island nation boasts an abundance of astounding natural beauty, beautiful weather, smashing nightlife, beautiful architecture, and welcoming people. Beyond its white sand beaches and dazzling turquoise bays, Barbados is also an emerging medical tourism destination. It is known as a leading destination for IVF, rehabilitation, and a wide range of surgical and non-surgical treatments. Hospitals and clinics in the country are equipped with modern technology and high-quality services. The doctors and specialists are highly-trained and international patients can enjoy the country’s beauty and tranquility, while undergoing a medical procedure and holistic therapy at the spa. This allows patients to be at their optimum relaxation when they undergo medical treatment, making the recovery period easier and the success rate higher.
Bridgetown, Barbados’ UNESCO World Heritage-listed capital, is filled with old colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Visitors can go to the beautifully restored Barbados Synagogue, learn more about cricket in the Cricket Legends of Barbados, explore the history of the country in Barbados Museum, and admire the beauty of the neo-Gothic parliament. Those who want to experience the tranquil beaches and the calm Caribbean Sea should visit Holetown. Located 13.5 kilometers from Bridgetown, this beautiful city offers the perfect blend of history with modern-day living. It is lined with world-famous restaurants and museums. The main draw of the city is its beaches, and most tourists come to witness the remarkable sea turtles in their natural habitat, try out paddle boarding, or see the man-made coral reef. Aside from Holetown and Bridgetown, other popular cities are Bathsheba, Oistins. And Speightstown.
International visitors will arrive at Grantley Adams International Airport as the airport serves the US, Canada, Central America, and Europe. A great way to travel around the country is by bus, which is the most affordable mode of transportation. Visitors who need a more flexible option can opt for a taxi. Taxis in the country are not metered, but the fares are regulated by the government based on the distance traveled and the cost is reasonably priced.
Barbados allows citizens of most countries, including Australia, the US, all EU countries, and the UAE, to visit and stay without a visa for up to 180 days. Nationals of other countries, such as Libya and Egypt, need a visa before arrival. All visitors must have a valid passport for at least 6 months.
Located in the tropics, Barbados experience hot sunny days and tropical rain showers during the summer months (mid-April to November). The cooler season (December to mid-April) has dry and less humid weather, making it the best time to visit the country.