Bronchoscopic Diagnosis and Treatment of Small Peripherally-located Lung Cancer

Abstract

We have developed a new staining method, rapid Shorr stain, and introduced it into brochoscopic examination. When the material obtained bronchoscopically is not diagnostic by rapid staining, additional procedures for diagnosis were performed immediately. This method improved diagnostic yield from 72% to 91%. We have applied brachytherapy for small peripherally-located lung cancer. Radioactive iridium needle was introduced into the tumors bronchoscopically or percutaneously. Radiation with I or 2 fractions was done. Radiation pneumonitis was generally mild, and local control of the tumors seemed to be almost comparable to surgical resection.