Preoperative Localization for Small Pulmonary Nodules Using Anchor with Scaled Suture System.

PURPOSES: This study aimed to describe a new localization technique developed using an anchor with a scaled suture (AWSS) system and to characterize the localization results and post-operative outcomes to evaluate its safety and effectiveness.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted at our centre from October 2020 to December 2021. In total, 328 small pulmonary nodules (sPNs) who underwent pre-operative computed tomography (CT)-guided AWSS system localization followed by wedge resection by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) were enrolled in this study.

RESULTS

CT-guided AWSS system implantations targeting 328 sPNs were successfully performed. The time spent performing localization was 12.4 ± 4.9 min. After puncture localization, the incidences of pneumothorax, pulmonary haemorrhage, and chest pain were 19.2% (63/328), 25.9% (85/328), and 0.9% (3/328), respectively. The incidence of overall complications was 42.7%. According to the CIRSE classification, there were no major complications. The median localization-VATS interval time was 7 h (range, 1-75 h). In 328 cases (100%), the location of the lesion was determined by palpation of the four-paw anchor in the lung and was successfully resected by VATS, and the correct diagnosis was obtained.

CONCLUSION

In this series, CT-guided pre-operative localization of pulmonary nodules with the AWSS system was safe and had a high positioning accuracy and success rate.