Analysis of Incidence of Pneumothorax and its Risk Factors after Transthoracic Biopsy of Lung Lesions under CT Guidance

Abstract

Background: Pneumothorax is a recognized complication of CT-guided transthoracic lung biopsy. Identifying contributing risk factors is crucial to enhance procedural safety.

Material and Methods: This study analyzed 500 patients undergoing CT-guided transthoracic lung biopsies, evaluating variables such as age, lesion depth, and number of needles passes in relation to pneumothorax development.

Results: The incidence of pneumothorax was 21.2%. Deeper lesions and more than two needle passes were significantly associated with increased risk, while age and sex showed no statistical correlation.

Conclusion: Attention to modifiable procedural factors, especially lesion depth and needle passes, can reduce pneumothorax risk in CT-guided lung biopsies.