Method and device are provided for evaluating the pleural space. The device in introduced percutaneously into a pleural space. The device includes an energy detector that facilitates evaluation of the pleura. The device also includes a tissue collection component and a joint. The joint allows the device to be bent at least 120 degrees, facilitating assessment of the pleura. The device allows tissue sampling when the device is bent.The method encompasses selective tissue sampling of the parietal pleura without inducing pneumothorax, with its attendant extended recovery time, in the patient. The distal portion of the device is introduced percutaneously into the pleural space. The pleura near the access point is evaluated using an energy emitter and energy receiver integrated into the device and a portion of the parietal pleura near the access point is sampled using a biopsy tool integrated into the distal portion of the device.
