What to expect after a lung needle biopsy?
After your biopsy, the nurse or technician will monitor you for signs of any complications. If there are no complications, you may return home after you recover from the local anesthesia [6].
Discuss with your doctor how long you should rest before returning to your daily activities. Also ask about any restrictions, such as lifting weight or heavy exercise.
If you were sedated
It usually takes a day or two to recover from sedatives. In this case, it is best to have a family or friend drive you home. They should also stay and take care of you until you are fully awake.
If you are in pain
If you feel pain after the procedure, your doctor might prescribe some pain medication to help manage discomfort. Avoid NSAIDs, as they may increase your risk of bleeding. An aspirin pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) is much recommended.
Your doctor may also order a prescription pain reliever.