[Application of the localization technique in video-assisted thoracoscopy for the diagnosis and treatment of solitary pulmonary nodule].

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVE

Video-assisted thoracoscopy is widely used in diagnosis and treatment of solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN). However, localization of the nodule during surgery is occasionally difficult. The purpose of the current research is to evaluate the localization technique during diagnosis and treatment of SPN with video-assistant thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

METHODS

Three-dimensional computed tomography is performed for SPN localization. If SPN is less than 1.5 cm or more than 2.0 cm beneath the pleura, Hook-wire localization technique is used. During operation, initial action is palpation with equipment. If this method fails, video-assisted minithoracotomy (VAMS) and direct finger use are applied for localization. Upon successful localization, a linear cutter is used for wedge resectioning. Fast frozen pathology is employed to make the decision for the next procedure.

RESULTS

SPNs are resected for 23 cases. Among them, 10 cases are performed with VATS and 13 cases are conducted with VAMS.

CONCLUSIONS

The accurate localization of SPN before and during surgery is very significant for the resectioning of SPN by VATS.