Biopsy of lesions of the thorax.

Bronchoscopy, thoracocentesis, and fine needle aspiration are the three most useful biopsy techniques for thoracic lesions. Minimally invasive procedures, such as mediastinoscopy and thoracoscopy, must readily be available. As biopsy techniques and the lesions to be biopsied become more complex, the surgeon should make the decision regarding the particular technique. Exploratory thoracotomy remains the ultimate thoracic biopsy.