Complications from Closed Pleural Biopsy
Author Information
Author(s): Sriram KB, Jersmann HPA
Primary Institution: Department of Thoracic Medicine, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
Hypothesis
Laceration to the lung parenchyma is the most likely cause of complications following closed pleural biopsy.
Conclusion
The case report highlights significant complications, including pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and subcutaneous emphysema, following a closed pleural biopsy.
Supporting Evidence
- Closed pleural biopsy can increase the diagnostic yield of malignant pleural effusions.
- Pneumothorax occurs in 3–15% of patients undergoing closed pleural biopsy.
- Complications like pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema after closed pleural biopsy are infrequently reported.
Takeaway
A man had a procedure to check for lung cancer, but it caused serious problems like air leaking into his chest and neck.
Methodology
The patient underwent a closed pleural biopsy using an Abrams needle, followed by imaging to assess complications.
Limitations
The report is based on a single case, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
A 64-year-old man with a history of smoking.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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