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Lung Biopsies Could Lead to Serious Complications

According to the American Cancer Society, a new study shows that lung biopsies could lead to serious complications. Long-term disability benefits could be available if you’re faced with months of not working due to a severe medical condition.

A CT scan is often done on patients who are considered at risk for lung cancer. If a suspicious nodule or spot is shown, a biopsy may be performed.

Biopsies require inserting a long, hollow needle into the patient’s chest and lungs. Serious complications, including excessive bleeding and partial lung collapse, are risk factors.

After researchers analyzed records of more than 15,000 patients who had a lung biopsy, it was found that bleeding occurred in only 1% of them, with 1 out of 5 needing a blood transfusion.

However, 15% of the patients experienced a partial lung collapse, with 7% of those patients requiring a chest tube because of the severity. This also resulted in a hospital stay ranging from 2 to 5 days.

Respiratory failure was another serious complication experienced in some patients, which required a breathing machine. Patients between the ages of 60 and 69, with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and smoked were at the greatest risk.

Patients who are at a low or moderate risk for lung cancer would likely not benefit having a lung biopsy done. On the other hand, the benefits may outweigh the risks for those patients considered at high risk.

Speak with an Atlanta long-term disability attorney if you’d like help filing your claim for disability benefits.

Long-term disability benefits may be available to those who have purchased a disability plan from a private insurer or have coverage through an employer. Unfortunately, the insurers don’t make it easy for the disabled to get access to the benefits they deserve.

When a severe medical condition makes it impossible for you to work and you’ve been denied your long-term disability benefits, an attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A. can help you cut through the red tape and fight for your benefits, no matter where you live in the U.S! Contact an Atlanta long-term disability attorney today – 1-888-234-5758.