The application of mobile computed tomography for the localization of small lung lesions

Abstract

Background: Localization of a small pulmonary nodule is essential for proper and prompt management. Hence, studies explored different modalities for localizing pulmonary nodules. These modalities include preoperative computed tomography (CT)-guided localization, intraoperative CT- guided localization in hybrid operating rooms (ORs), and intraoperative electromagnetic navigation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the preliminary results of the mobile CT scanner in localizing small pulmonary nodules in the ORs. Materials and Methods: A total of nine patients with small single pulmonary lesions were managed with video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lung resection after mobile CT-guided localization at the Taipei Veterans General Hospital in 2020. The characteristics of patients and their pulmonary lesions and the perioperative parameters for localization and resection were evaluated. Results: All lesions were successfully located and removed via uniportal VATS without the occurrence of major complications. The mean size of nodules was 8.33 mm. The mean distance of the nodules to the pleura was 14.9 mm. These measurements were obtained via CT images. The mean time of preparation, localization, and resection time were 70.33 min, 22.56 min, and 51.56 min, respectively. Conclusion: Localization of small pulmonary nodules using a mobile CT scanner in the OR is feasible, safe and flexible.

Keywords

• lung nodules
• mobile computed tomography - localization
• small pulmonary lesions