[Diagnostic thoracotomy--a contribution to its value, indications and results].

Open lung biopsy by a limited thoracotomy has an important place in the diagnosis of localized or diffuse pulmonary disease. Its application provides adequate pulmonary or mediastinal tissue biopsy, and permits a reliable histologic evaluation. The postoperative risks are small if certain pre-requisites are observed. We recommend atraumatic removing of the tissue, excluding the middle lobe and lingula. To prevent complications careful suturing of the biopsy site with absorbable suture material seems essential.