Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy for Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions: One-Year Results of the Prospective, Multicenter NAVIGATE Study

The incremental contribution of mobile cone-beam computed tomography to the tool-lesion relationship during shape-sensing robotic-assisted bronchoscopy

Introduction

This study aims to answer the question of whether adding mobile cone-beam computed tomography (mCBCT) imaging to shape-sensing robotic-assisted bronchoscopy (ssRAB) translates into a quantifiable improvement in the tool-lesion relationship.

Methods

Data from 102 peripheral lung lesions with ≥2 sequential mCBCT orbital spins and from 436 lesions with 0-1 spins were prospectively captured and retrospectively analysed. The primary outcome was the tool-lesion relationship status across the first and the last mCBCT spins. Secondary outcomes included 1) the change in distance between the tip of the sampling tool and the centre of the lesion between the first and the last spins and 2) the per-lesion diagnostic yield.

Results

Compared to lesions requiring 0-1 spins, lesions requiring ≥2 spins were smaller and had unfavourable bronchus sign and intra-operative sonographic view. On the first spin, 54 lesions (53%) were designated as non-tool-in-lesion (non-TIL) while 48 lesions (47%) were designated as TIL. Of the 54 initially non-TIL cases, 49 (90%) were converted to TIL status by the last spin. Overall, on the last spin, 96 out of 102 lesions (94%) were defined as TIL and six out of 102 lesions (6%) were defined as non-TIL (p<0.0001). The mean distance between the tool and the centre of the lesion decreased from 10.4 to 6.6 mm between the first and last spins (p<0.0001). The overall diagnostic yield was 77%.

Conclusion

Targeting traditionally challenging lung lesions, intra-operative volumetric imaging allowed for the conversion of 90% of non-TIL status to TIL. Guidance with mCBCT resulted in a significant decrease in the distance between the tip of the needle to lesion centre.

Optimal approach for diagnosing peripheral lung nodules by combining electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy and radial probe endobronchial ultrasound

INTRODUCTION

Electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) and radial probe endobronchial ultrasound (RP-EBUS) are essential bronchoscopic procedures for diagnosing peripheral lung lesions. Despite their individual advantages, the optimal circumstances for their combination remain uncertain.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective study enrolled 473 patients with 529 pulmonary nodules who underwent ENB and/or RP-EBUS biopsies between December 2021 and December 2022. Diagnostic yield was calculated using strict, intermediate, and liberal definitions. In the strict definition, only malignant and specific benign lesions were deemed diagnostic at the time of the index procedure. The intermediate and liberal definitions included additional results from the follow-up period.

RESULTS

The diagnostic yield of the strict definition was not statistically different among the three groups (ENB/Combination/RP-EBUS 63.8%/64.2%/62.6%, p = 0.944). However, the diagnostic yield was superior in the ENB + RP-EBUS group for nodules with a bronchus type II or III and a solid part <20 mm (odds ratio 1.96, 95% confidence interval 1.09-3.53, p = 0.02). In terms of complications, bleeding was significantly higher in the ENB + RP-EBUS group (ENB/Combination/RP-EBUS 3.7% /6.2/0.6%, p = 0.002), but no major adverse event was observed.

CONCLUSION

The combination of ENB and RP-EBUS enhanced the diagnostic yield for nodules with bronchus type II or III and solid part <20 mm, despite a slightly elevated risk of bleeding. Careful patient selection based on nodule characteristics is important to benefit from this combined approach.

Ultrathin Bronchoscopy Without Virtual Navigation for Diagnosis of Peripheral Lung Lesions

BACKGROUND

The increasing incidence of encountering lung nodules necessitates an ongoing search for improved diagnostic procedures. Various bronchoscopic technologies have been introduced or are in development, but further studies are needed to define a method that fits best in clinical practice and health care systems.

RESEARCH QUESTION

How do basic bronchoscopic tools including a combination of thin (outer diameter 4.2 mm) and ultrathin bronchoscopes (outer diameter 3.0 mm), radial endobronchial ultrasound (rEBUS) and fluoroscopy perform in peripheral pulmonary lesion diagnosis?

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This is a retrospective review of the performance of peripheral bronchoscopy using thin and ultrathin bronchoscopy with rEBUS and 2D fluoroscopy without a navigational system for evaluating peripheral lung lesions in a single academic medical center from 11/2015 to 1/2021. We used a strict definition for diagnostic yield and assessed the impact of different variables on diagnostic yield, specifically after employment of the ultrathin bronchoscope. Logistic regression models were employed to assess the independent associations of the most impactful variables.

RESULTS

A total of 322 patients were included in this study. The median of the long axis diameter was 2.2 cm and the median distance of the center of the lesion from the visceral pleural surface was 1.9 cm. Overall diagnostic yield was 81.3% after employment of the ultrathin bronchoscope, with more detection of concentric rEBUS views (93% vs. 78%, p < 0.001). Sensitivity for detecting malignancy also increased from 60.5% to 74.7% (p = 0.033) after incorporating the ultrathin scope into practice, while bronchus sign and peripheral location of the lesion were not found to affect diagnostic yield. Concentric rEBUS view, solid appearance, upper/middle lobe location and larger size of the nodules were found to be independent predictors of successful achievement of diagnosis at bronchoscopy.

INTERPRETATION

This study demonstrates a high diagnostic yield of biopsy of lung lesions achieved by utilization of thin and ultrathin bronchoscopes. Direct visualization of small peripheral airways with simultaneous rEBUS confirmation increased localization rate of small lesions in a conventional bronchoscopy setting without virtual navigational planning.

Computational risk model for predicting 2-year malignancy of pulmonary nodules using demographic and radiographic characteristics

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether discriminatory performance of a computational risk model in classifying pulmonary lesion malignancy using demographic, radiographic, and clinical characteristics is superior to the opinion of experienced providers. We hypothesized that computational risk models would outperform providers.

METHODS

Outcome of malignancy was obtained from selected patients enrolled in the NAVIGATE trial (NCT02410837). Five predictive risk models were developed using an 80:20 train-test split: univariable logistic regression model based solely on provider opinion, multivariable logistic regression model, random forest classifier, extreme gradient boosting model, and artificial neural network. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve achieved during testing of the predictive models was compared to that of prebiopsy provider opinion baseline using the DeLong test with 10,000 bootstrapped iterations.

RESULTS

The cohort included 984 patients, 735 (74.7%) of which were diagnosed with malignancy. Factors associated with malignancy from multivariable logistic regression included age, history of cancer, largest lesion size, lung zone, and positron-emission tomography positivity. Testing area under the receiver operating characteristic curve were 0.830 for provider opinion baseline, 0.770 for provider opinion univariable logistic regression, 0.659 for multivariable logistic regression model, 0.743 for random forest classifier, 0.740 for extreme gradient boosting, and 0.679 for artificial neural network. Provider opinion baseline was determined to be the best predictive classification system.

CONCLUSIONS

Computational models predicting malignancy of pulmonary lesions using clinical, demographic, and radiographic characteristics are inferior to provider opinion. This study questions the ability of these models to provide additional insight into patient care. Expert clinician evaluation of pulmonary lesion malignancy is paramount.

Breaking New Ground in Interventional Pulmonology: Integrating Cone Beam CT and Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy for High-Risk Pneumothorax in Peripherally Located Solitary Pulmonary Nodules

Lung cancer, a leading cause of global cancer-related deaths, necessitates the development of innovative diagnostic techniques. Traditional bronchoscopy, while useful, has limitations in diagnosing peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) and carries a higher risk of complications such as pneumothorax. However, the field of interventional pulmonology has seen significant advancements, including the introduction of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy (RAB), cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), radial endobronchial ultrasound (R-EBUS), and rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE). These advancements have greatly improved the precision of diagnosing high-risk PPLs. This report presents the case of a 60-year-old female smoker with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and extensive centrilobular emphysema, who had a peripherally located high-risk pulmonary nodule. She was successfully diagnosed with metastatic adenocarcinoma using an integrated approach, despite the challenging location of the lesion and high risk of pneumothorax. The integration of RAB with CBCT and augmented fluoroscopy offers a groundbreaking approach for diagnosing and managing difficult-to-reach, high-risk pulmonary nodules, marking a significant stride in the field of interventional pulmonology.

Determinants of radiation exposure during mobile cone-beam CT-guided robotic-assisted bronchoscopy

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy (RAB) is an emerging modality to sample pulmonary lesions. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) can be incorporated into RAB. We investigated the magnitude and predictors of patient and staff radiation exposure during mobile CBCT-guided shape-sensing RAB.

METHODS

Patient radiation dose was estimated by cumulative dose area product (cDAP) and cumulative reference air kerma (cRAK). Staff equivalent dose was calculated based on isokerma maps and a phantom simulation. Patient, lesion and procedure-related factors associated with higher radiation doses were identified by logistic regression models.

RESULTS

A total of 198 RAB cases were included in the analysis. The median patient cDAP and cRAK were 10.86 Gy cm2 (IQR: 4.62-20.84) and 76.20 mGy (IQR: 38.96-148.38), respectively. Among staff members, the bronchoscopist was exposed to the highest median equivalent dose of 1.48 μSv (IQR: 0.85-2.69). Both patient and staff radiation doses increased with the number of CBCT spins and targeted lesions (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). Patient obesity, negative bronchus sign, lesion size <2.0 cm and inadequate sampling by on-site evaluation were associated with a higher patient dose, while patient obesity and inadequate sampling by on-site evaluation were associated with a higher bronchoscopist equivalent dose.

CONCLUSION

The magnitude of patient and staff radiation exposure during CBCT-RAB is aligned with safety thresholds recommended by regulatory authorities. Factors associated with a higher radiation exposure during CBCT-RAB can be identified pre-operatively and solicit procedural optimization by reinforcing radiation protective measures. Future studies are needed to confirm these findings across multiple institutions and practices.

A comprehensive quality assurance protocol for electromagnetic tracking in brachytherapy

BACKGROUND

Electromagnetic tracking (EMT) systems have proven to be a valuable source of information regarding the location and geometry of applicators in patients undergoing brachytherapy (BT). As an important element of an enhanced and individualized pre-treatment verification, EMT can play a pivotal role in detecting treatment errors and uncertainties to increase patient safety.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is two-fold: to design, develop and test a dedicated measurement protocol for the use of EMT-enabled afterloaders in BT and to collect and compare the data acquired from three different radiation oncology centers in different clinical environments.

METHODS

A novel quality assurance (QA) phantom composed of a scaffold with supports to fix the field generator, different BT applicators, and reference sensors (sensor verification tools) was used to assess the precision (jitter error) and accuracy (relative distance errors and target registration error) of the EMT sensor integrated into an afterloader prototype. Measurements were repeated in different environments where EMT measurements are likely to be performed, namely an electromagnetically clean laboratory, a BT suite, an operating room, and, if available, a CT suite and an MRI suite dedicated to BT.

RESULTS

The mean positional jitter was consistently under 0.1 mm across all measurement points, with a slight trend of increased jitter at greater distances from the field generator. The mean variability of sensor positioning in the tested tandem and ring gynecological applicator was also below 0.1 mm. The tracking accuracy close to the center of the measurement volume was higher than at its edges. The relative distance error at the center was 0.2-0.3 mm with maximum values reaching 1.2-1.8 mm, but up to 5.5 mm for measurement points close to the edges. In general, similar accuracy results were obtained in the clinical environments and in all investigated institutions (median distance error 0.1-0.4 mm, maximum error 1.0-2.0 mm), however, errors were found to be larger in the CT suite (median distance error up to 1.0 mm, maximum error up to 3.6 mm).

CONCLUSION

The presented quality assessment protocol for EMT systems in BT has demonstrated that EMT offers a high-accuracy determination of the applicator/implant geometry even in clinical environments. In addition to that, it has provided valuable insights into the performance of EMT-enabled afterloaders across different radiation oncology centers.

Radial endobronchial ultrasound - guided bronchoscopy for the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary lesions: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective trials

Background

The diagnostic yield of radial endobronchial ultrasound (r-EBUS) for the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) varies between studies and is affected by multiple factors. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of r-EBUS, and to explore the factors influencing the diagnostic yield of r-EBUS in patients with PPLs.

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases were searched to identify relevant studies that used r-EBUS for diagnosing PPLs from the date of inception to Dec 2022. Meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4 and Stata 15.1.

Results

An analysis of 46 studies with a total of 7252 PPLs was performed. The pooled diagnostic yield of r-EBUS was 73.4 % (95 % CI: 69.9%-76.7 %), with significant heterogeneity detected among studies (I2 = 90 %, P < 0.001). Further analysis demonstrated PPLs located in the middle or lower lobe, >2 cm in size, malignant in type, solid in appearance on computerized tomography (CT), present in bronchus sign, the within probe location, and the addition of rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) were associated with increased diagnostic yield, whereas use of a guide sheath (GS), bronchoscopy type, and a multimodality approach failed to influence the outcome. The pooled incidence rates of overall complications, pneumothorax and moderate and severe bleeding were 3.1 % (95 % CI: 2.1%-4.3 %), 0.4 % (95 % CI: 0.1%-0.7 %) and 1.1 % (95 % CI: 0.5%-2.0 %), respectively.

Conclusions

r-EBUS has an appreciable diagnostic yield and an excellent safety manifestation when used to deal with PPLs.

Early comparison robotic bronchoscopy versus electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy for biopsy of pulmonary nodules in a thoracic surgery practice

Pulmonary nodules are frequently encountered in high-risk patients. Often these require biopsy which can be challenging. We relate our experience comparing use of electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy (ENB) to a robotic bronchoscopy system (RB). A retrospective review of patients undergoing bronchoscopic biopsy from 2015 to 2021. The timeframe overlapped with transition from ENB using Veran SPiN system to RB using Ion system by Intuitive. Patient and nodule characteristics were collected. Primary end point was overall diagnostic yield which was defined by pathologic confirmation of malignancy or benign finding. Secondary outcomes included diagnostic yield based on overall size of nodules and need for further work up and testing. 116 patients underwent ENB or RB of 134 nodules. No perioperative complications occurred. Diagnostic yield of ENB was 49.5% (41/91 nodules) versus 86.1% (37/43 nodules) for RB. Average nodule size for ENB was 2.55 cm versus 1.96 cm for RB. When divided based on size, ENB had a 30% diagnostic yield for nodules 1-2 cm (11/37 nodules, mean size 1.46 cm) and 64% yield for nodules 2-3 cm (14/22 nodules, mean size 2.38 cm). RB had an 81% yield for nodules 1-2 cm (mean size 1.41 cm) and 100% yield for nodules 2-3 cm (mean 2.3 cm). RB showed superiority over ENB in early implementation trials for biopsy of suspicious pulmonary nodules. It is a safe technology allowing for increased access to all lung fields and utilization in the thoracic surgical practice will be paramount to advancing the field.

Cone-beam CT-based Navigation With Augmented Fluoroscopy of the Airways for Image-guided Bronchoscopic Biopsy of Peripheral Pulmonary Nodules: A Prospective Clinical Study

BACKGROUND

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and augmented fluoroscopy (AF), in which intraprocedural CBCT data is fused with fluoroscopy, have been utilized as a novel image-guidance technique for biopsy of peripheral pulmonary lesions. The aim of this clinical study is to determine the safety and diagnostic performance of CBCT-guided bronchoscopy with advanced software tools for procedural planning and navigational guidance with AF of the airways for biopsy of peripheral pulmonary nodules.

METHODS

Fifty-two consecutive subjects were prospectively enrolled in the AIRWAZE study (December 2018 to October 2019). Image-guided bronchoscopic biopsy procedures were performed under general anesthesia with specific ventilation protocols in a hybrid operating room equipped with a ceiling-mounted C-arm system. Procedural planning and image-guided bronchoscopy with CBCT and AF were performed using the Airwaze investigational device.

RESULTS

A total of 58 pulmonary lesions with a median size of 19.0 mm (range 7 to 48 mm) were biopsied. The overall diagnostic yield at index procedure was 87.9% (95% CI: 77.1%-94.0%). No severe adverse events related to CBCT-guided bronchoscopy, such as pneumothorax, bleeding, or respiratory failure, were observed.

CONCLUSION

CBCT-guided bronchoscopic biopsy with augmented fluoroscopic views of the airways and target lesion for navigational guidance is technically feasible and safe. Three-dimensional image-guided navigation biopsy is associated with high navigational success and a high diagnostic yield for peripheral pulmonary nodules.

Assessment of Advanced Diagnostic Bronchoscopy Outcomes for Peripheral Lung Lesions: A Delphi Consensus Definition of Diagnostic Yield and Recommendations for Patient-centered Study Designs. An Official American Thoracic Society/American College of Chest Physicians Research Statement

Background: Advanced diagnostic bronchoscopy targeting the lung periphery has developed at an accelerated pace over the last two decades, whereas evidence to support introduction of innovative technologies has been variable and deficient. A major gap relates to variable reporting of diagnostic yield, in addition to limited comparative studies. Objectives: To develop a research framework to standardize the evaluation of advanced diagnostic bronchoscopy techniques for peripheral lung lesions. Specifically, we aimed for consensus on a robust definition of diagnostic yield, and we propose potential study designs at various stages of technology development. Methods: Panel members were selected for their diverse expertise. Workgroup meetings were conducted in virtual or hybrid format. The cochairs subsequently developed summary statements, with voting proceeding according to a modified Delphi process. The statement was cosponsored by the American Thoracic Society and the American College of Chest Physicians. Results: Consensus was reached on 15 statements on the definition of diagnostic outcomes and study designs. A strict definition of diagnostic yield should be used, and studies should be reported according to the STARD (Standards for Reporting Diagnostic Accuracy Studies) guidelines. Clinical or radiographic follow-up may be incorporated into the reference standard definition but should not be used to calculate diagnostic yield from the procedural encounter. Methodologically robust comparative studies, with incorporation of patient-reported outcomes, are needed to adequately assess and validate minimally invasive diagnostic technologies targeting the lung periphery. Conclusions: This American Thoracic Society/American College of Chest Physicians statement aims to provide a research framework that allows greater standardization of device validation efforts through clearly defined diagnostic outcomes and robust study designs. High-quality studies, both industry and publicly funded, can support subsequent health economic analyses and guide implementation decisions in various healthcare settings.

Transbronchial Cryobiopsy Using the Ultrathin 1.1-mm Cryoprobe with Ultrathin Bronchoscopy under Radial Endobronchial Ultrasound Guidance for Diagnosis of Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions

INTRODUCTION

Today, the increasing number of incidentally detected peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) within and outside lung cancer screening trials is a diagnostic challenge. This fact encourages further improvement of diagnostic procedures to increase the diagnostic yield of transbronchial biopsy, which has been shown to have a low complication rate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of a new ultrathin 1.1 cryoprobe that can be placed through an ultrathin bronchoscope (UTB) using fluoroscopy and radial endobronchial ultrasonography (rEBUS) navigation for assessing PPLs.

METHODS

Thirty-five patients with PPL less than 4 cm in diameter were prospectively enrolled to receive transbronchial cryobiopsies (TBCBs) using the ultrathin 1.1-mm cryoprobe. Navigation to the PPL was accomplished with the UTB. Under rEBUS and fluoroscopy guidance up to 4 cryobiopsies were obtained. The sample sizes of the biopsies were compared to a historic collective derived from a 1.9-mm cryoprobe and standard forceps. The feasibility and safety of the procedure, the cumulative and overall diagnostic yield, and the cryobiopsy sizes were evaluated.

RESULTS

After detection with the rEBUS, TBCB was collected from 35 PPLs, establishing a diagnosis in 25 cases, corresponding to an overall diagnostic yield of 71.4%. There was no difference in diagnostic yield for PPL <20 mm or ≥20 mm. All cryobiopsies were representative with a mean tissue area of 11.9 ± 4.3 mm2, which was significantly larger compared to the historic collective (p = 0.003). Six mild and four moderate bleeding events and 1 case of pneumothorax were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Using the ultrathin 1.1-mm cryoprobe combined with an UTB for rEBUS-guided TBCB of PPL is feasible and safe. This diagnostic approach improves bronchoscopic techniques for diagnosing peripheral lung lesions and may contribute to improve diagnosis of lung cancer even in small PPL.

An International Survey of Practices in the Investigation and Endoscopic Treatment of Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions amongst Interventional Bronchoscopists

INTRODUCTION

The investigation of peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) can be challenging. Several bronchoscopic modalities have been developed to reach and biopsy PPL but the level of adoption of these techniques by interventional pulmonologists (IPs) is unknown. This international survey was conducted to describe current practices in PPL investigation among IP.

METHODS

This survey was sent to all members of the World Association for Bronchology and Interventional Pulmonology, Canadian Thoracic Society Procedures Assembly, AABIP, and the Groupe d'Endoscopie Thoracique et Interventionnel Francophone. The survey was composed of 48 questions and three clinical cases to establish a portrait of modalities used to investigate and treat PPL by IP around the world.

RESULTS

Three hundred and twelve IP responded to the survey. Most of them practice in Europe (n = 122), North America (n = 97), and Asia (n = 49). Half of responders perform more than 100 endoscopic procedures for PPL annually. General anesthesia and conscious sedation are used in similar proportions (53% and 47%, respectively). Rapid on site evaluation (ROSE) is used when sampling PPL by 42%. Radial EBUS (69%), fluoroscopy (55%), and electromagnetic navigation (27%) are the most widely used techniques. Most IP combine techniques (89%). Robotic bronchoscopy (15%) and cone-beam CT (8%) are almost exclusively used in the USA where, respectively, 60% and 37% of respondents reported using these modalities. Ten percent of IP currently had access to endoscopic treatment modalities for PPL. However, half of the remaining IP plan to acquire an endoscopic treatment modality in the next 2 years.

CONCLUSION

Available techniques and practices worldwide vary significantly regarding PPL investigation and treatment.

[4D electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy for the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary nodules - An overview and preliminary clinical results]

BACKGROUND

The diagnostic of peripheral pulmonary nodules (PPN) is a particular challenge in interventional bronchology, which is why navigation systems such as electromagnetic navigation (ENB) are increasingly being used. The 4D-ENB represents the most current development of the ENB. It utilizes inspiratory and expiratory CT scans for mapping and thus helps compensate for respiratory movements-induced CT-to-body divergence. The aim of this work was to present the first clinical data and experiences using the 4D-ENB method for diagnosis of PPNs.

METHODS

We retrospectively describe the results of the first nine consecutive patient cases diagnosed at Klinikum Braunschweig using 4D-ENB in a unimodal diagnostic procedure.

RESULTS

Of the first 9 PPNs examined by 4D-ENB, navigation and puncture of the lesion was successful in 8 patients (89%). Diagnostic biopsy was could be carried out in six out of nine patients (67%). There were no significant procedure-related complications.

CONCLUSION

Our preliminary data suggest that 4D-ENB is a promising new alternative for the diagnosis of PPNs. To further improve diagnostic yield, 4D-END, which lacks real-time visualization, should be embedded in a multimodal diagnostic procedure with rEBUS and/or fluoroscopy.

Interventional Pulmonology: Extending the Breadth of Thoracic Care

Interventional pulmonary medicine has developed as a subspecialty focused on the management of patients with complex thoracic disease. Leveraging minimally invasive techniques, interventional pulmonologists diagnose and treat pathologies that previously required more invasive options such as surgery. By mitigating procedural risk, interventional pulmonologists have extended the reach of care to a wider pool of vulnerable patients who require therapy. Endoscopic innovations, including endobronchial ultrasound and robotic and electromagnetic bronchoscopy, have enhanced the ability to perform diagnostic procedures on an ambulatory basis. Therapeutic procedures for patients with symptomatic airway disease, pleural disease, and severe emphysema have provided the ability to palliate symptoms. The combination of medical and procedural expertise has made interventional pulmonologists an integral part of comprehensive care teams for patients with oncologic, airway, and pleural needs. This review surveys key areas in which interventional pulmonologists have impacted the care of thoracic disease through bronchoscopic intervention.

Robotic versus Electromagnetic bronchoscopy for pulmonary LesIon AssessmeNT: the RELIANT pragmatic randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy has recently emerged as an alternative to electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy for the evaluation of peripheral pulmonary lesions. While robotic-assisted bronchoscopy is proposed to have several advantages, such as an easier learning curve, it is unclear if it has comparable diagnostic utility as electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy.

METHODS

Robotic versus Electromagnetic bronchoscopy for pulmonary LesIon AssessmeNT (RELIANT) is an investigator-initiated, single-center, open label, noninferiority, cluster randomized controlled trial conducted in two operating rooms at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Each operating room (OR) is assigned to either robotic-assisted or electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy each morning, with each OR day considered one cluster. All patients undergoing diagnostic bronchoscopy for evaluation of a peripheral pulmonary lesion in one of the two operating rooms are eligible. Schedulers, patients, and proceduralists are blinded to daily group allocations until randomization is revealed for each operating room each morning. The primary endpoint is the diagnostic yield defined as the proportion of cases yielding lesional tissue. Secondary and safety endpoints include procedure duration and procedural complications. Enrolment began on March 6, 2023, and will continue until 202 clusters have been accrued, with expected enrolment of approximately 400 patients by the time of completion in March of 2024.

DISCUSSION

RELIANT is a pragmatic randomized controlled trial that will compare the diagnostic yield of the two most commonly used bronchoscopic approaches for sampling peripheral pulmonary lesions. This will be the first known cluster randomized pragmatic trial in the interventional pulmonology field and the first randomized controlled trial of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov registration (NCT05705544) on January 30, 2023.

Diagnostic yield using electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy for peripheral pulmonary nodules <2 cm

BACKGROUND

Although electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) is highly sensitive in the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary nodules (PPNs), its diagnostic yield for subgroups of smaller PPNs is under evaluation.

OBJECTIVES

Diagnostic yield evaluation of biopsy using ENB for PPNs <2 cm.

DESIGN

The diagnostic yield, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the ENB-mediated biopsy for PPNs were evaluated.

METHODS

Patients who had PPNs with diameters <2 cm and underwent ENB-mediated biopsy between May 2015 and February 2020 were consecutively enrolled. The final diagnosis was made via pathological examination after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 82 lesions from 65 patients were analyzed. The median tumor size was 11 mm. All lesions were subjected to ENB-mediated biopsy, of which 29 and 53 were classified as malignant and benign, respectively. Subsequent segmentectomy, lobectomy, or wedge resection, following pathological examinations were performed on 64 nodules from 57 patients. The overall sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for nodules <2 cm were 53.3%, 91.7%, 92.3%, and 51.2%, respectively. The receiver operating curve showed an area under the curve of 0.721 (p < 0.001). Additionally, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 62.5%, 100%, 100%, and 42.9%, respectively, for nodules with diameters equal to or larger than 1 cm; and 30.8%, 86.7%, 66.7%, and 59.1%, respectively, for nodules less than 1 cm. In the subgroup analysis, neither the lobar location nor the distance of the PPNs to the pleura affected the accuracy of the ENB diagnosis. However, the spiculated sign had a negative impact on the accuracy of the ENB biopsy (p = 0.010).

CONCLUSION

ENB has good specificity and positive predictive value for diagnosing PPNs <2 cm; however, the spiculated sign may negatively affect ENB diagnostic accuracy. In addition, the diagnostic reliability may only be limited to PPNs equal to or larger than 1 cm.

Robotic-assisted Navigation Bronchoscopy: A Meta-Analysis of Diagnostic Yield and Complications

BACKGROUND

Robotic-assisted navigation bronchoscopy (RANB) is a novel method to biopsy lung nodules, with initial reports demonstrating excellent accuracy. We aimed to evaluate pooled estimates of diagnostic yields and complication rates with RANB by performing a meta-analysis of the available literature.

METHODS

We searched 3 databases, including PubMed, EmBase, and Web of Science. The resulting abstracts were reviewed by 2 investigators. Analyses were performed using random effects models, and diagnostic yield and complication rates were estimated after the Freeman-Tukey transformation.

RESULTS

A total of 23 articles, comprising 1409 patients and 1541 nodules, were included in the final analysis. Mean ages ranged from 63.2 to 69.3 years. The average size of the nodules ranged between 5.9 and 25.0 mm. Most patients (54.0% to 92.0%) had a current or prior smoking history in studies that reported them (n=8). The pooled diagnostic yield was 81.9% (12 studies, 838 nodules, 95% CI: 83.4%-91.0%), and the pooled sensitivity for malignancy was 87.6% (8 studies, 699 nodules, 95% CI: 81.3%-89.5%). The pooled incidence of pneumothorax rates was 0.60% (95% CI: 0.11%-1.35%). The pooled incidence of major bleeding was <0.01%.

CONCLUSION

Diagnostic yield for patients with pulmonary nodules undergoing RANB is high, though may be impacted by the prevalence of malignancy, participant selection, and publication bias. Complication rates, including pneumothoraces and bleeding rates, appear low across all studies. If RANB is available, clinicians should consider utilizing this platform to biopsy pulmonary nodules.

Imaging in peripheral bronchoscopy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Historically the sampling of peripheral lung lesions via bronchoscopy has suffered from inferior diagnostic outcomes relative to transthoracic needle aspiration, and neither a successful bronchoscopic navigation nor a promising radial ultrasonographic image of one's target lesion guarantees a successful biopsy. Fortunately, many of peripheral bronchoscopy's shortcomings - including an inability to detect and compensate for computed tomography (CT)-body divergence, and the absence of tool-in-lesion confirmation - are potentially remediable through the use of improved intraprocedural imaging techniques.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent advances in intraprocedural imaging, including the integration of cone beam CT, digital tomosynthesis, and augmented fluoroscopy into bronchoscopic procedures have yielded promising results. These advanced imaging modalities may improve the outcomes of peripheral bronchoscopy through the detection and correction of navigational errors, CT-body divergence, and malpositioned biopsy instruments.

SUMMARY

The incorporation of advanced imaging is an essential step in the improvement of peripheral bronchoscopic procedures.

ERS International Congress 2023: highlights from the Thoracic Oncology Assembly

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in the world. It greatly affects the patients' quality of life, and is thus a challenge for the daily practice in respiratory medicine. Advances in the genetic knowledge of thoracic tumours' mutational landscape, and the development of targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors, have led to a paradigm shift in the treatment of lung cancer and pleural mesothelioma. During the 2023 European Respiratory Society Congress in Milan, Italy, experts from all over the world presented their high-quality research and reviewed best clinical practices. Lung cancer screening, management of early stages of lung cancer, application of artificial intelligence and biomarkers were discussed and they will be summarised here.

Treatment strategies for malignant pulmonary nodule: beyond lobectomy. Point-counterpoint

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Technological advancement in low-dose computed tomography resulted in an increased incidental discovery of early-stage lung cancer and multifocal ground glass opacity. The demand for parenchyma-preserving treatment strategies is greater now than ever. Pulmonary ablative therapy is a groundbreaking technique to offer local ablative treatment in a lung-sparing manner. It has become a promising technique in lung cancer management with its diverse applicability. In this article, we will review the current development of ablative therapy in lung and look into the future of this innovative technique.

RECENT FINDINGS

Current literature suggests that ablative therapy offers comparable local disease control to other local therapies and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), with a low risk of complications. In particular, bronchoscopic microwave ablation (BMWA) has considerably fewer pleural-based complications due to the avoidance of pleural puncture. BMWA can be considered in the multidisciplinary treatment pathway as it allows re-ablation and allows SBRT after BMWA.

SUMMARY

With the benefits which ablative therapy offers and its ability to incorporate into the multidisciplinary management pathway, we foresee ablative therapy, especially BMWA gaining significance in lung cancer treatment. Future directions on developing novel automated navigation platforms and the latest form of ablative energy would further enhance clinical outcomes for our patients.

Advances in navigating to the nodule and targeting

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The multitude of available platforms and imaging modalities for navigational bronchoscopy, in combination with the various sampling tools that can be used intra-procedurally, is complex. This review seeks to describe the recent developments in peripheral bronchoscopy in regards to navigation, imaging, and sampling target lesions in the pulmonary parenchyma.

RECENT FINDINGS

Robotic assisted bronchoscopy has improved navigation to the peripheral airways for sampling of peripheral parenchymal lesions. These navigational platforms use innovative technology utilizing electromagnetic navigation and shape-sensing technology for guidance. The greatest improvement has been the stabilization of the robotic scope in the periphery to allow for accurate sampling. Despite improvements in these platforms, limitations of CT to body divergence continue to impact navigation to the lesion and therefore diagnostic yield of the procedure. Advanced intraprocedural imaging with cone beam CT or augmented fluoroscopy has been a recent focus to improve this area. Further, the adoption of newer sampling tools, such as cryobiopsy, offers the possibility of increased diagnostic yield.

SUMMARY

The developments in advanced bronchoscopy will impact the role of biopsy in the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary parenchymal lesions.

Anesthetic considerations in interventional pulmonology

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In this review, we highlight the important anesthetic consideration that relate to interventional bronchoscopic procedures for the management of central airway obstruction due to anterior mediastinal masses, endoluminal endobronchial obstruction, peripheral bronchoscopy for diagnosis and treatment of lung nodules, bronchoscopic lung volume reduction and medical pleuroscopy for diagnosis and management of pleural diseases.

RECENT FINDINGS

The advent of the field of Interventional Pulmonology has allowed for minimally invasive options for patients with a wide range of lung diseases which at times have replaced more invasive surgical procedures. Ongoing research has shed light on advancement in anesthetic techniques and management strategies that have increased the safety during peri-operative management during these complex procedures. Current evidence focusing on the anesthetic techniques is presented here.

SUMMARY

The field of Interventional Pulmonology requires a tailored anesthetic approach. Recent advancements and ongoing research have focused on expanding the partnership between the anesthesiologist and interventional pulmonologists which has led to improved outcomes for patients undergoing these procedures.

Efficacy of Robotic Bronchoscopy for Molecular Marker Analysis in Primary Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

Molecular testing has become a more frequent necessity in NSCLC management. Using next-generation sequencing, multiple targets for therapy can be identified with small amounts of nuclear material. The authors evaluated the performance of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy in acquiring tissue that meets pre-analytic criteria for PD-L1 immunohistochemistry and/or next-generation sequencing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with a diagnosis of primary lung cancer identified through robotic bronchoscopy were retrospectively reviewed. Pathology reports were assessed for results of molecular testing and detection of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). An independent pathologist evaluated each specimen type (smears, cell block, tissue biopsy, and/or touch prep) to determine whether each tissue type would meet pre-analytic criteria for attempting next-generation sequencing and/or PD-L1 immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight patients with primary lung were reviewed. By independent pathologic assessment of cytological smears, cell block, biopsy, and/or touch preparations, 72% of samples were found to be adequate for molecular and PD-L1 testing. Preanalytic adequacy (%) for next-generation sequencing (NGS) and PD-L1 staining was determined based on specimen type: cytological smear 48.6% for NGS; cell block 14.3% for NGS and 32.9% for PD-L1; biopsy 29.2% for NGS and 62.5% for PD-L1; and touch prep 61.4% for NGS.

CONCLUSION

Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy yielded samples that met preanalytic criteria for molecular testing in 72% of cases. These results support the use of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy for both the diagnosis and molecular testing of early-stage lung cancer.

Diagnostic efficacy and safety of radial probe endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration for adjacent lesions in segmental or subsegmental bronchi: a single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Peripheral lung lesions can be sampled using various techniques, including computer tomography-guided transthoracic needle aspiration, electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy, virtual navigation bronchoscopy, and radial probe endobronchial ultrasound transbronchial lung biopsy. Mediastinal lesions can be sampled using techniques like convex probe endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (CEBUS-TBNA) and endoscopic ultrasound-fine-needle aspiration. However, effective, safe techniques for lesions adjacent to the segmental or subsegmental bronchi are lacking. Herein, we retrospectively evaluated the diagnostic yield and safety of radial probe endobronchial ultrasound-assisted transbronchial needle aspiration (REBUS-TBNA) for lesions adjacent to the segmental bronchi, and explored the factors related to diagnostic yield.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the diagnostic yield and safety of REBUS-TBNA cases performed in our department from January 2019 to December 2022. Observation group patients had undergone REBUS-TBNA for lesions adjacent to the segmental bronchi; control group patients had undergone CEBUS-TBNA for mediastinal or hilar lesions. Patient characteristics and lesion sizes, diagnostic yield, adverse events, and relations between diagnostic yield and clinical characteristics were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were not statistically significant between-group differences in sex, age, diagnostic yield, or rate of adverse events. The observation group (n = 25; 17 male, 8 female) had a mean age of 64.76 ± 10.75 years. The average lesion size was 4.66 ± 1.07 cm, and lesions were predominantly in the upper lobes (80%). REBUS-TBNA diagnostic yield was 84%, with no adverse events reported. Diagnostic yield was not associated with lesion size or extent of bronchial stenosis; however, it was positively correlated with number of punctures. Patients with > 3 punctures had a significantly higher diagnostic yield than those with ≤ 3 punctures.

CONCLUSIONS

REBUS-TBNA is a safe, effective diagnostic technique, particularly for lesions adjacent to the segmental or subsegmental bronchi of the upper lobe. Performing more than three punctures during the procedure improves the diagnostic yield. Larger-scale studies are warranted to confirm these results, and to further explore the clinical value of REBUS-TBNA.

Novel electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy system for the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary nodules: a prospective, multicentre study

BACKGROUND

Traditional electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) is a real-time image-guided system and used with thick bronchoscopes for the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary nodules (PPNs). A novel ENB that could be used with thin bronchoscopes was developed. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic yield and the experience of using this ENB system in a real clinical scenario.

METHODS

This multicentre study enrolled consecutive patients with PPNs adopting ENB from March 2019 to August 2021. ENB was performed with different bronchoscopes, ancillary techniques and sampling instruments according to the characteristics of the nodule and the judgement of the operator. The primary endpoint was the diagnostic yield. The secondary endpoints included the diagnostic yield of subgroups, procedural details and complication rate.

RESULTS

In total, 479 patients with 479 nodules were enrolled in this study. The median lesion size was 20.9 (IQR, 15.9-25.9) mm. The overall diagnostic yield was 74.9% (359/479). A thin bronchoscope was used in 96.2% (461/479) nodules. ENB in combination with radial endobronchial ultrasound (rEBUS), a guide sheath (GS) and a thin bronchoscope was the most widely used guided method, producing a diagnostic yield of 74.1% (254/343). The median total procedural time was 1325.0 (IQR, 1014.0-1676.0) s. No severe complications occurred.

CONCLUSION

This novel ENB system can be used in combination with different bronchoscopes, ancillary techniques and sampling instruments with a high diagnostic yield and safety profile for the diagnosis of PPNs, of which the combination of thin bronchoscope, rEBUS and GS was the most common method in clinical practice.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03716284.

Special Considerations and Techniques of Interventions in Lung Transplant Recipients

Lung transplant remains an important treatment option for patients with end-stage lung diseases providing improvement in survival rates and quality of life. Specialized considerations should be applied with interventions of lung transplant recipients as they host specific anatomic variations and high risk towards certain complications. In this article, we highlight the role of interventional radiology for lung transplant recipients along with discussion of interventional techniques. Specific emphasis is placed on describing and explaining the techniques pertained to the points of anastomosis, diagnosis and treatment of malignancies, and management of complications in lung transplant recipients.

Robotic navigational bronchoscopy in a thoracic surgery practice: Leveraging technology in the management of pulmonary nodules

Objectives

Robotic navigational bronchoscopy is increasingly used to improve diagnostic yield for pulmonary nodules compared with the 50% to 60% obtained by standard bronchoscopy; however, safety and efficacy data are limited to small series. The aim of this study was to evaluate diagnostic yield and clinical outcomes in a large multisurgeon single-center cohort.

Methods

All patients who underwent robotic navigational bronchoscopy and biopsy from September 2020 to October 2022 were identified from a prospective institutional registry. The primary outcome was diagnostic yield. The secondary outcome was diagnostic yield for molecular testing.

Results

A total of 503 nodules were biopsied during the study period. Median nodule size was 2.1 cm. Overall diagnostic yield was 87.9%. Factors associated with increased diagnostic yield were decreased time from date of planning computed tomography to procedure date (odds ratio, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.96-0.99; P = .04) and greater nodule size (odds ratio, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01-1.07; P = .02) per 0.1-cm increment. Molecular analysis was sent in 101 patients and was sufficient in 90% of cases. Complications occurred in 22 (5%) patients, including 13 (3.1%) with pneumothoraxes (7 patients requiring a chest drain), and 5 (1.2%) patients had bleeding requiring intraprocedural bronchial intervention. A total of 41 patients were consented for biopsy and resection during a single anesthetic event. Four of these cases were stopped at robotic navigational bronchoscopy due to an alternative diagnosis. Mean length of stay was 3.4 ± 1.1 days. There were no major complications.

Conclusions

This study suggests robotic navigational bronchoscopy has a high diagnostic yield and obtains adequate tissue for molecular analysis critical for selection of targeted therapies. With careful patient selection robotic navigational bronchoscopy can be combined with surgery to treat lung cancer as a single procedure with low complication rates.

Navigational Bronchoscopy versus Computed Tomography-guided Transthoracic Needle Biopsy for the Diagnosis of Indeterminate Lung Nodules: protocol and rationale for the VERITAS multicenter randomized trial

Background

Lung nodule incidence is increasing. Many nodules require biopsy to discriminate between benign and malignant etiologies. The gold-standard for minimally invasive biopsy, computed tomography-guided transthoracic needle biopsy (CT-TTNB), has never been directly compared to navigational bronchoscopy, a modality which has recently seen rapid technological innovation and is associated with improving diagnostic yield and lower complication rate. Current estimates of the diagnostic utility of both modalities are based largely on non-comparative data with significant risk for selection, referral, and publication biases.

Methods

The VERITAS trial (na V igation E ndoscopy to R each Indeterminate lung nodules versus T ransthoracic needle A spiration, a randomized controlled S tudy) is a multicenter, 1:1 randomized, parallel-group trial designed to ascertain whether electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy with integrated digital tomosynthesis is noninferior to CT-TTNB for the diagnosis of peripheral lung nodules 10-30 mm in diameter with pre-test probability of malignancy of at least 10%. The primary endpoint is diagnostic accuracy through 12 months follow-up. Secondary endpoints include diagnostic yield, complication rate, procedure duration, need for additional invasive diagnostic procedures, and radiation exposure.

Discussion

The results of this rigorously designed trial will provide high-quality data regarding the management of lung nodules, a common clinical entity which often represents the earliest and most treatable stage of lung cancer. Several design challenges are described. Notably, all nodules are centrally reviewed by an independent interventional pulmonology and radiology adjudication panel relying on pre-specified exclusions to ensure enrolled nodules are amenable to sampling by both modalities while simultaneously protecting against selection bias favoring either modality. Conservative diagnostic yield and accuracy definitions with pre-specified criteria for what non-malignant findings may be considered diagnostic were chosen to avoid inflation of estimates of diagnostic utility.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04250194.

CT-Guided vs. Navigational Bronchoscopic Biopsies for Solitary Pulmonary Nodules: A Single-Institution Retrospective Comparison

OBJECTIVE

Lung cancer is the second most common cause of death by cancer. Multiple modalities can be used to obtain a tissue sample from a pulmonary nodule. We aimed to compare the yield and adverse events related to transthoracic needle aspiration (TTNA) and Electromagnetic Navigation Biopsy (ENB) at our institution.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective study in which all patients referred for evaluation of a pulmonary lesion over 5 years (1 January 2013 to 31 December 2018) were identified. Our primary outcome was to compare the accuracy of TTNA to that of ENB in establishing the diagnosis of pulmonary lesions. Secondary outcomes included the evaluation of the adverse events and the sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive value of each modality.

RESULTS

A total of 1006 patients were analyzed. The mean age of patients in the TTNA and the ENB group was 67.2 ± 11.2 years and 68.3 ± 9.2 years respectively. Local anesthesia was predominantly used for TTNA and moderate sedation was more commonly used in the ENB group. We found ENB to have an accuracy of 57.1%, with a sensitivity of 40.0%, a specificity of 100.0%, a positive predictive value of 100.0%, and a negative predictive value of 40.0%. As for the TTNA, the accuracy was 75.9%, with a sensitivity of 77.5%, a specificity of 61.5%, a positive predictive value of 95.0%, and a negative predictive value of 22.5%. The rate of clinically significant complications was higher in the TTNA group (8.2%) as compared to the ENB group (4.7%) with a p-value < 0.001.

CONCLUSION

TTNA was superior to ENB-guided biopsy for the diagnostic evaluation of lung nodules. However, the complication rate was much higher in the TTNA group as compared to the ENB group.

Accuracy of Preliminary Pathology for Robotic Bronchoscopic Biopsy

BACKGROUND

Diagnosis and treatment of peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) currently require at least 2 procedures. An all-in-1 approach would require diagnosing malignancy with preliminary cytology results. This study investigated the concordance between preliminary cytology and final pathology results in biopsies of PPLs obtained by shape-sensing robotic-assisted bronchoscopy (ssRAB).

METHODS

This study was a retrospective, consecutive, single-arm, single-center study of 110 ssRABs for PPLs. Concordance was defined as agreement between preliminary cytology and final pathology results. Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and safety outcomes were examined.

RESULTS

The concordance was 89% for needle biopsies, 85% for forceps biopsies, and 92% overall, with substantial agreement. There was no significant association of concordance with patients' demographics or lesion characteristics. Preliminary cytology resulted in a malignant diagnosis in 70%, a nonmalignant diagnosis in 4%, and a nondiagnostic result in 26%, with accuracy of 86% and sensitivity of 84%. The total complication rate was 3.6%, with a pneumothorax rate of 1.8%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study compared the concordance of preliminary pathology results with final pathology results for ssRAB biopsies in PPLs. The results showed that preliminary samples have a high concordance with final pathology results and may enable management of PPLs with a single anesthetic procedure including biopsy, staging, and treatment.

Outcomes of the electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy using forceps for lung lesion suspected malignancy: A retrospective study

Many studies have reported electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) diagnostic yields and the importance of size and computed tomography (CT) bronchus sign. This study aimed to determine the diagnostic yield of ENB alone, using forceps biopsy and cytology. We analyzed the factors associated with yield and complications according to gross specimen size. This retrospective study included patients who underwent ENB using forceps for suspected lung lesions on CT between January 2020 and December 2022 in South Korea. Factors related to the ENB diagnostic yield and complications were evaluated, and the impacts of gross specimen size and cytology were analyzed. A total of 276 patients were analyzed. The final diagnostic yield was 75.5% after excluding indeterminate cases. Sensitivity and specificity were 74.2% and 100%, respectively. Pneumothorax developed in 1.4% (4/276) of cases, with no grade 3 or higher bleeding. Univariable analysis showed that the number of biopsies and the size of the gross specimen were related to the diagnosis. Multivariable analyses showed that a larger lesion size on CT was a significant factor for diagnosis. The gross size of the specimens was not significantly associated with epinephrine use. ENB had acceptable diagnostic yield and safety for diagnosing lung lesions with suspected malignancy. Obtaining more tissue through biopsy may not increase bleeding or pneumothorax complications. Identifying patients with lesion characteristics, including CT bronchus sign, would help increase ENB diagnostic yield.

B7H3 targeting gold nanocage pH-sensitive conjugates for precise and synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy against NSCLC

BACKGROUND

The combination of drug delivery with immune checkpoint targeting has been extensively studied in cancer therapy. However, the clinical benefit for patients from this strategy is still limited. B7 homolog 3 protein (B7-H3), also known as CD276 (B7-H3/CD276), is a promising therapeutic target for anti-cancer treatment. It is widely overexpressed on the surface of malignant cells and tumor vasculature, and its overexpression is associated with poor prognosis. Herein, we report B7H3 targeting doxorubicin (Dox)-conjugated gold nanocages (B7H3/Dox@GNCs) with pH-responsive drug release as a selective, precise, and synergistic chemotherapy-photothermal therapy agent against non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

RESULTS

In vitro, B7H3/Dox@GNCs exhibited a responsive release of Dox in the tumor acidic microenvironment. We also demonstrated enhanced intracellular uptake, induced cell cycle arrest, and increased apoptosis in B7H3 overexpressing NSCLC cells. In xenograft tumor models, B7H3/Dox@GNCs exhibited tumor tissue targeting and sustained drug release in response to the acidic environment. Wherein they synchronously destroyed B7H3 positive tumor cells, tumor-associated vasculature, and stromal fibroblasts.

CONCLUSION

This study presents a dual-compartment targeted B7H3 multifunctional gold conjugate system that can precisely control Dox exposure in a spatio-temporal manner without evident toxicity and suggests a general strategy for synergistic therapy against NSCLC.

The Effect of Definitions and Cancer Prevalence on Diagnostic Yield Estimates of Bronchoscopy: A Simulation-based Analysis

Rationale: Studies of bronchoscopy have reported diagnostic yield (DY) using different calculation methods, which has hindered comparisons across studies. Objectives: To quantify the effect of the variability of four methods on DY estimates of bronchoscopy. Methods: We performed a simulation-based analysis of patients undergoing bronchoscopy using variations around base case assumptions for cancer prevalence (60%), distribution of nonmalignant findings, and degree of follow-up information at a fixed sensitivity of bronchoscopy for malignancy (80%). We calculated DY, the rate of true positives and true negatives (TNs), using four methods. Method 1 considered malignant and specific benign findings at index bronchoscopy as true positives and TNs, respectively. Method 2 included nonspecific benign findings as TNs. Method 3 considered nonspecific benign findings cases as TNs only if follow-up confirmed benign disease. Method 4 counted all cases with a nonmalignant diagnosis as TNs if follow-up confirmed benign disease. A scenario analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were conducted to demonstrate the effect of parameter estimates on DY. A change in DY of >10% was considered clinically meaningful. Results: Across all pairwise comparisons of the four methods, a DY difference of >10% was observed in 76.7% of cases (45,992 of 60,000 comparisons). Method 4 resulted in DY estimates that were >10% higher than estimates made with other methods in >90% of scenarios. Variation in cancer prevalence had a large effect on DY. Conclusions: Across a wide range of clinical scenarios, the categorization of nonmalignant findings at index bronchoscopy and cancer prevalence had the largest impact on DY. The large variability in DY estimates across the four methods limits the interpretation of bronchoscopy studies and warrants standardization.

Invasive Diagnostic Procedures from Bronchoscopy to Surgical Biopsy-Optimization of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Samples for Molecular Testing

Background and Objectives: Treatment of advanced lung cancer (LC) has become increasingly personalized over the past decade due to an improved understanding of tumor molecular biology and antitumor immunity. The main task of a pulmonologist oncologist is to establish a tumor diagnosis and, ideally, to confirm the stage of the disease with the least invasive technique possible. Materials and Methods: The paper will summarize published reviews and original papers, as well as published clinical studies and case reports, which studied the role and compared the methods of invasive pulmonology diagnostics to obtain adequate tumor tissue samples for molecular analysis, thereby determining the most effective molecular treatments. Results: Bronchoscopy is often recommended as the initial diagnostic procedure for LC. If the tumor is endoscopically visible, the biopsy sample is susceptible to molecular testing, the same as tumor tissue samples obtained from surgical resection and mediastinoscopy. The use of new sampling methods, such as cryobiopsy for peripheral tumor lesions or cytoblock obtained by ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA), enables obtaining adequate small biopsies and cytological samples for molecular testing, which have until recently been considered unsuitable for this type of analysis. During LC patients' treatment, resistance occurs due to changes in the mutational tumor status or pathohistological tumor type. Therefore, the repeated taking of liquid biopsies for molecular analysis or rebiopsy of tumor tissue for new pathohistological and molecular profiling has recently been mandated. Conclusions: In thoracic oncology, preference should be given to the least invasive diagnostic procedure providing a sample for histology rather than for cytology. However, there is increasing evidence that, when properly processed, cytology samples can be sufficient for both the cancer diagnosis and molecular analyses. A good knowledge of diagnostic procedures is essential for LC diagnosing and treatment in the personalized therapy era.

Thirty-Day Complications, Unplanned Hospital Encounters, and Mortality after Endosonography and/or Guided Bronchoscopy: A Prospective Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Limited data exist regarding the adverse events of advanced diagnostic bronchoscopy, with most of the available information derived from retrospective datasets that primarily focus on early complications.

METHODS

We conducted a 15-month prospective cohort study among consecutive patients undergoing endosonography and/or guided bronchoscopy under general anesthesia. We evaluated the 30-day incidence of severe complications, any complication, unplanned hospital encounters, and deaths. Additionally, we analyzed the time of onset (immediate, within 1 h of the procedure; early, 1 h-24 h; late, 24 h-30 days) and identified risk factors associated with these events.

RESULTS

Thirty-day data were available for 697 out of 701 (99.4%) enrolled patients, with 85.6% having suspected malignancy and multiple comorbidities (median Charlson Comorbidity Index (IQR): 4 (2-5)). Severe complications occurred in only 17 (2.4%) patients, but among them, 10 (58.8%) had unplanned hospital encounters and 2 (11.7%) died within 30 days. A significant proportion of procedure-related severe complications (8/17, 47.1%); unplanned hospital encounters (8/11, 72.7%); and the two deaths occurred days or weeks after the procedure. Low-dose attenuation in the biopsy site on computed tomography was independently associated with any complication (OR: 1.87; 95% CI 1.13-3.09); unplanned hospital encounters (OR: 2.17; 95% CI 1.10-4.30); and mortality (OR: 4.19; 95% CI 1.74-10.11).

CONCLUSIONS

Severe complications arising from endosonography and guided bronchoscopy, although uncommon, have significant clinical consequences. A substantial proportion of adverse events occur days after the procedure, potentially going unnoticed and exerting a negative clinical impact if a proactive surveillance program is not implemented.

Robotic versus Electromagnetic Bronchoscopy for Pulmonary LesIon AssessmeNT: the RELIANT pragmatic randomized trial

Background

Robotic assisted bronchoscopy has recently emerged as an alternative to electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy for the evaluation of peripheral pulmonary lesions. While robotic assisted bronchoscopy is proposed to have several advantages, such as an easier learning curve, it is unclear if it has comparable diagnostic utility as electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy.

Methods

Robotic versus Electromagnetic Bronchoscopy for Pulmonary LesIon AssessmeNT (RELIANT) is an investigator-initiated, single-center, open label, noninferiority, cluster randomized controlled trial conducted in two operating rooms at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Each operating room is assigned to either robotic assisted or electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy each morning, with each OR day considered one cluster. All patients undergoing diagnostic bronchoscopy for evaluation of a peripheral pulmonary lesion in one of the two operating rooms are eligible. Schedulers, patients and proceduralists are blinded to daily group allocations until randomization is revealed for each operating room each morning. The primary endpoint is the diagnostic yield defined as the proportion of cases yielding lesional tissue. Secondary and safety endpoints include procedure duration and procedural complications. Enrolment began on March 6, 2023, and will continue until 202 clusters have been accrued, with expected enrolment of approximately 400 patients by the time of completion in March of 2024.

Discussion

RELIANT is a pragmatic randomized controlled trial that will compare the diagnostic yield of the two most commonly used bronchoscopic approaches for sampling peripheral pulmonary lesions. This will be the first known cluster randomized pragmatic trial in the interventional pulmonology field and the first randomized controlled trial of robotic assisted bronchoscopy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov registration (NCT05705544) on January 30, 2023.

Digital Tomosynthesis: Review of Current Literature and Its Impact on Diagnostic Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy has garnered increased popularity in the biopsy of peripheral lung lesions. The development of navigational guided bronchoscopy systems along with radial endobronchial ultrasound (REBUS) allows clinicians to access and sample peripheral lesions. The development of robotic bronchoscopy improved localization of targets and diagnostic accuracy. Despite such technological advancements, published diagnostic yield remains lower compared to computer tomography (CT)-guided biopsy. The discordance between the real-time location of peripheral lesions and anticipated location from preplanned navigation software is often cited as the main variable impacting accurate biopsies. The utilization of cone beam CT (CBCT) with navigation-based bronchoscopy has been shown to assist with localizing targets in real-time and improving biopsy success. The resources, costs, and radiation associated with CBCT remains a hindrance in its wider adoption. Recently, digital tomosynthesis (DT) platforms have been developed as an alternative for real-time imaging guidance in peripheral lung lesions. In North America, there are several commercial platforms with distinct features and adaptation of DT. Early studies show the potential improvement in peripheral lesion sampling with DT. Despite the results of early observational studies, the true impact of DT-based imaging devices for peripheral lesion sampling cannot be determined without further prospective randomized trials and meta-analyses.

Reporting Standards for Diagnostic Testing: Guidance for Authors From Editors of Respiratory, Sleep, and Critical Care Journals

Diagnostic testing is fundamental to medicine. However, studies of diagnostic testing in respiratory medicine vary significantly in terms of their methodology, definitions, and reporting of results. This has led to often conflicting or ambiguous results. To address this issue, a group of 20 respiratory journal editors worked to develop reporting standards for studies of diagnostic testing based on a rigorous methodology to guide authors, peer reviewers, and researchers when conducting studies of diagnostic testing in respiratory medicine. Four key areas are covered, including defining the reference standard of truth, measures of dichotomous test performance when used for dichotomous outcomes, measures of multichotomous test performance for dichotomous outcomes, and what constitutes a useful definition of diagnostic yield. The importance of using contingency tables for reporting results is addressed with examples from the literature. A practical checklist is provided as well for reporting studies of diagnostic testing.

Feasibility of shape-sensing robotic-assisted bronchoscopy for biomarker identification in patients with thoracic malignancies

OBJECTIVE

Molecular diagnostic assays require samples with high nucleic acid content to generate reliable data. Similarly, programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) immunohistochemistry (IHC) requires samples with adequate tumor content. We investigated whether shape-sensing robotic-assisted bronchoscopy (ssRAB) provides adequate samples for molecular and predictive testing.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified diagnostic samples from a prospectively collected database. Pathologic reports were reviewed to assess adequacy of samples for molecular testing and feasibility of PD-L1 IHC. Tumor cellularity was quantified by an independent pathologist using paraffin-embedded sections. Univariable and multivariable linear regression models were constructed to assess associations between lesion- and procedure-related variables and tumor cellularity.

RESULTS

In total, 128 samples were analyzed: 104 primary lung cancers and 24 metastatic lesions. On initial pathologic assessment, ssRAB samples were deemed to be adequate for molecular testing in 84% of cases; on independent review of cellular blocks, median tumor cellularity was 60% (interquartile range, 25%-80%). Hybrid capture-based next-generation sequencing was successful for 25 of 26 samples (96%), polymerase chain reaction-based molecular testing (Idylla; Biocartis) was successful for 49 of 52 samples (94%), and PD-L1 IHC was successful for 61 of 67 samples (91%). Carcinoid and small cell carcinoma histologic subtype and adequacy on rapid on-site evaluation were associated with higher tumor cellularity.

CONCLUSIONS

The ssRAB platform provided adequate tissue for next-generation sequencing, polymerase chain reaction-based molecular testing, and PD-L1 IHC in >80% of cases. Tumor histology and adequacy on intraoperative cytologic assessment might be associated with sample quality and suitability for downstream assays.

Sampling of Thoracic Lymph Nodes and Lung Lesions: Trends in Procedural Utilization

BACKGROUND

Advances in bronchoscopy have impacted the practice patterns in the sampling of thoracic lymph nodes and lung lesions.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to study the trends in utilization of mediastinoscopy, transthoracic needle aspiration (TTNA), and bronchoscopic transbronchial sampling.

METHODS

We conducted an analysis of patient claims for sampling of thoracic lymph nodes and lung lesions in the Medicare population and a sample of the commercial population between 2016 and 2020. We used Current Procedural Terminology codes to identify mediastinoscopy, TTNA, and bronchoscopic transbronchial sampling. Post-procedural pneumothorax rates were assessed by procedure type including subset analyses for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

RESULTS

Between 2016 and 2020, utilization of mediastinoscopy has decreased in both the Medicare and commercial populations (-47.3% and -65.4%, respectively), while linear endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) has increased only in the Medicare population (+28.2%). Percutaneous lung biopsy claims dropped by -17.0% in the Medicare and -41.22% in the commercial population. The use of bronchoscopic TBNA and forceps biopsy declined in both populations, but the reliance on a combination of guided technology (radial EBUS-guided and navigation) grew in the Medicare and commercial populations (+76.3% and +25%). Rates of post-procedural pneumothorax were significantly higher following percutaneous biopsy compared to bronchoscopic transbronchial biopsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Linear EBUS-guided sampling has surpassed mediastinoscopy as the technique for sampling thoracic lymph nodes. Transbronchial lung sampling is increasingly being performed with guidance technology. This trend is aligned with favorable rates of post-procedure pneumothorax for transbronchial biopsy.

High diagnostic yield of electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy performed under cone beam CT guidance: results of a randomized Belgian monocentric study

BACKGROUND

With the increasing use of low dose CT scans, numerous pulmonary nodules are detected. As majority of them are benign, development of efficient non-surgical diagnostic intervention is mandatory. Electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) has been developed to reach difficult to access lesions. The aim of the present study was to compare the diagnostic yield of ENB procedures performed in a classical endoscopy suite or in a hybrid room equipped by a cone beam CT (CBCT).

METHODS

A monocentric randomized study was performed in the Erasme Hospital between January 2020 and December 2021. Lung nodules of maximum 30 mm of diameter were eligible. In both arms (endoscopy or CBCT suites), ENB, fluoroscopic guidance and a radial endobronchial ultrasound were used to reach the lesion. Then six trans-bronchial biopsies (TBB) and one trans-bronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) were performed. Primary outcomes were the diagnostic yield and diagnostic accuracy of the procedure.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients were randomized (24 in the endoscopy and 25 in the CBCT arms). The lesion size was 15,9 ± 4,6 mm and 16,6 ± 6,0 mm respectively (mean ± SD, p = NS). The diagnostic yield of ENB performed under CBCT guidance was 80% compared to 42% when performed in the endoscopy suite under standard fluoroscopic guidance (p < 0,05). Similarly, the diagnostic accuracy in the CBCT group was 87% compared to 54% for the endoscopy group (p < 0,05). Duration of the procedure in the CBCT and endoscopy arms was 80 ± 23 and 61 ± 13 min respectively (mean ± SD, p < 0,01). Performing TBLC in addition to TBB increased the diagnostic yield by 14% (17 and 12,5% in CBCT and endoscopy suites respectively, p = NS).

CONCLUSION

This study highlighted the additional value to perform ENB procedure under CBCT guidance for small size (less than 2 cm of diameter) pulmonary nodules.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical trial registration number: NCT05257382.

Diagnostic outcomes of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy for pulmonary lesions in a real-world multicenter community setting

BACKGROUND

Robot-assisted bronchoscopy (RAB) is among the newest bronchoscopic technologies, allowing improved visualization and access for small and hard-to-reach nodules. RAB studies have primarily been conducted at academic centers, limiting the generalizability of results to the broader real-world setting, while variability in diagnostic yield definitions has impaired the validity of cross-study comparisons. The objective of this study was to determine the diagnostic yield and sensitivity for malignancy of RAB in patients with pulmonary lesions in a community setting and explore the impact of different definitions on diagnostic yield estimates.

METHODS

Data were collected retrospectively from medical records of patients ≥ 21 years who underwent bronchoscopy with the Monarch® Platform (Auris Health, Inc., Redwood City, CA) for biopsy of pulmonary lesions at three US community hospitals between January 2019 and March 2020. Diagnostic yield was calculated at the index RAB and using 12-month follow-up data. At index, all malignant and benign (specific and non-specific) diagnoses were considered diagnostic. After 12 months, benign non-specific cases were considered diagnostic only when follow-up data corroborated the benign result. An alternative definition at index classified benign non-specific results as non-diagnostic, while an alternative 12-month definition categorized index non-diagnostic cases as diagnostic if no malignancy was diagnosed during follow-up.

RESULTS

The study included 264 patients. Median lesion size was 19.3 mm, 58.9% were peripherally located, and 30.1% had a bronchus sign. Samples were obtained via Monarch in 99.6% of patients. Pathology led to a malignant diagnosis in 115 patients (43.6%), a benign diagnosis in 110 (41.7%), and 39 (14.8%) non-diagnostic cases. Index diagnostic yield was 85.2% (95% CI: [80.9%, 89.5%]) and the 12-month diagnostic yield was 79.4% (95% CI: [74.4%, 84.3%]). Alternative definitions resulted in diagnostic yield estimates of 58.7% (95% CI: [52.8%, 64.7%]) at index and 89.0% (95% CI: [85.1%, 92.8%]) at 12 months. Sensitivity for malignancy was 79.3% (95% CI: [72.7%, 85.9%]) and cancer prevalence was 58.0% after 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

RAB demonstrated a high diagnostic yield in the largest study to date, despite representing a real-world community population with a relatively low prevalence of cancer. Alternative definitions had a considerable impact on diagnostic yield estimates.

Comparison of electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy and transthoracic needle biopsy for diagnosing bronchus sign-positive pulmonary lesions

OBJECTIVES

Electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) is an advanced technique for diagnosing peripheral pulmonary lesions, and the bronchus sign is a well-established factor for improving the diagnostic performance. However, ENB is a novel technology compared to the commonly adopted transthoracic needle biopsy (TTNB). There are limited data on the comparison of these techniques for diagnosing bronchus sign-positive lesions. Therefore, we aimed to compare the diagnostic yield and complication rates of ENB and TTNB for diagnosing lung cancer in bronchus sign-positive pulmonary lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We assessed 2,258 individuals who underwent either of the techniques for initial biopsy between September 2016 and May 2022 at a tertiary center in South Korea and analyzed 1,248 participants (153 ENB and 1,095 TTNB cases) with a positive bronchus sign. We performed multivariable logistic regression analyses to evaluate the factors associated with the diagnostic yield, sensitivity for malignancy, and procedure-related complications. In addition, the outcomes were compared between the two techniques after a 1:2 propensity score-matching to control for pre-procedural factors.

RESULTS

After adjustments for clinical/radiological factors, performing TTNB over ENB was not significantly associated with a higher diagnostic yield but with a higher risk of pneumothorax (OR = 9.69, 95% CI = 4.15-22.59). Propensity score-matching resulted in 459 participants (153 ENB and 306 TTNB cases) with balanced pre-procedural characteristics. The overall diagnostic yield did not differ significantly between ENB and TTNB (85.0% vs. 89.9%, p = 0.124). The diagnostic yield (86.7% vs. 90.3%, p = 0.280) and sensitivity for malignancy (85.3% vs. 88.8%, p = 0.361) were comparable among patients with a class 2 bronchus sign. However, TTNB demonstrated a significantly higher complication rate of pneumothorax (28.8% vs. 3.9%, p < 0.001) and pneumothorax requiring tube drainage (6.5% vs. 2.0%, p = 0.034) than ENB.

CONCLUSION

ENB demonstrated a diagnostic yield comparable with that of TTNB for diagnosing bronchus sign-positive peripheral pulmonary lesions with significantly lower complication rates.

Diagnostic yield and safety of navigation bronchoscopy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Navigation bronchoscopy has seen rapid development in the past decade in terms of new navigation techniques and multi-modality approaches utilizing different techniques and tools. This systematic review analyses the diagnostic yield and safety of navigation bronchoscopy for the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary nodules suspected of lung cancer.

METHODS

An extensive search was performed in Embase, Medline and Cochrane CENTRAL in May 2022. Eligible studies used cone-beam CT-guided navigation (CBCT), electromagnetic navigation (EMN), robotic navigation (RB) or virtual bronchoscopy (VB) as the primary navigation technique. Primary outcomes were diagnostic yield and adverse events. Quality of studies was assessed using QUADAS-2. Random effects meta-analysis was performed, with subgroup analyses for different navigation techniques, newer versus older techniques, nodule size, publication year, and strictness of diagnostic yield definition. Explorative analyses of subgroups reported by studies was performed for nodule size and bronchus sign.

RESULTS

A total of 95 studies (n = 10,381 patients; n = 10,682 nodules) were included. The majority (n = 63; 66.3%) had high risk of bias or applicability concerns in at least one QUADAS-2 domain. Summary diagnostic yield was 70.9% (95%-CI 68.4%-73.2%). Overall pneumothorax rate was 2.5%. Newer navigation techniques using advanced imaging and/or robotics(CBCT, RB, tomosynthesis guided EMN; n = 24 studies) had a statistically significant higher diagnostic yield compared to longer established techniques (EMN, VB; n = 82 studies): 77.5% (95%-CI 74.7%-80.1%) vs 68.8% (95%-CI 65.9%-71.6%) (p < 0.001).Explorative subgroup analyses showed that larger nodule size and bronchus sign presence were associated with a statistically significant higher diagnostic yield. Other subgroup analyses showed no significant differences.

CONCLUSION

Navigation bronchoscopy is a safe procedure, with the potential for high diagnostic yield, in particular using newer techniques such as RB, CBCT and tomosynthesis-guided EMN. Studies showed a large amount of heterogeneity, making comparisons difficult. Standardized definitions for outcomes with relevant clinical context will improve future comparability.

Innovative Invasive Loco-Regional Techniques for the Treatment of Lung Cancer

Surgical resection is still the standard treatment for early-stage lung cancer. A multimodal treatment consisting of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and/or immunotherapy is advised for more advanced disease stages (stages IIb, III and IV). The role of surgery in these stages is limited to very specific indications. Regional treatment techniques are being introduced at a high speed because of improved technology and their possible advantages over traditional surgery. This review includes an overview of established and promising innovative invasive loco-regional techniques stratified based on the route of administration, including endobronchial, endovascular and transthoracic routes, a discussion of the results for each method, and an overview of their implementation and effectiveness.

Comparative analysis of the efficacy and safety of electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy combined with x-ray or radial endobronchial ultrasound biopsy in the diagnosis of small peripheral pulmonary nodules

OBJECTIVE

To compare the clinical value and safety of electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) combined with radial endobronchial ultrasound (R-EBUS) or x-ray in the diagnosis of small peripheral pulmonary nodules that cannot be diagnosed by conventional bronchoscopy.

METHODS

Fifty-six patients with peripheral pulmonary nodules of <3 cm in diameter who underwent bronchoscopy at the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University and Dushu Lake Hospital of Soochow University from February 2019 to January 2022 were selected as the study subjects, including 24 patients who underwent ENB combined with x-ray and 32 patients who underwent ENB combined with R-EBUS. ENB was used as the guiding method in both groups, and x-ray group and R-EBUS group were combined with x-ray and R-EBUS, respectively, to determine whether the lesion was reached. In x-ray group, biopsy and brushing were performed under fluoroscopic guidance. Using the results of surgery, puncture pathology, or clinical follow-up 1 year as the gold standard, the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value (NPV), diagnostic yield, negative likelihood ratio (LR-), Youden index, missed diagnosis rate, success rate, and κ value were compared between the two groups, and the occurrence of postoperative complications was also compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The negative predictive value of the R-EBUS group was significantly better than that of the x-ray group (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Even with smaller nodule diameters, the negative predictive value of ENB combined with R-EBUS were still higher than that of the x-ray group.