Percutaneous lung biopsies: a survey of UK practice based on 5444 biopsies

Percutaneous transthoracic lung biopsies are commonly performed for the investigation of lung masses. We describe current practice and complication rates in the UK. A postal questionnaire was sent to all centres in the British Thoracic Society directory. 157 replies (61% response rate) were received, providing data on 5444 biopsies. Mean number of biopsies performed per annum was 30.5 per centre; 8% of centres did not perform biopsies, 36% performed 100. Consultant radiologists perform 91% of biopsies. Written consent was obtained at all centres. The operator obtained consent at 50% of centres. Written information for patients was provided at 35 (24%) centres. Biopsies are performed on a day case basis at 103 (71%) centres. Prior to biopsy the following were obtained routinely: CT scan (73% of centres), platelet count (73%), full clotting screen (70%), lung function (55%). Complications included pneumothorax (20.5% of biopsies), pneumothorax requiring ches...