What does decortication of the lung involve?

Decortication of the lung involves thoracotomy and the surgical removal of diseased or fibrous tissue that has formed on the surface of the lung. This procedure is typically indicated in cases where there is significant pleural thickening or empyema that restricts lung expansion and function. By removing this fibrous layer, the operation helps to re-expand the lung, restore respiratory mechanics, and improve overall pulmonary function.

In contrast, other options do not accurately describe the process of decortication. Removal of the lung entirely refers to a more extensive procedure known as pneumonectomy, which is not the objective of decortication. Insertion of a chest tube pertains to the management of pleural effusion or pneumothorax and does not involve surgical removal of tissue. A biopsy of lung tissue is a diagnostic procedure, whereas decortication is therapeutic, focusing on tissue removal rather than obtaining samples for analysis.