Two Cases of Lung Cancer Undergoing Pre-operative Barium Marking Using an Ultra-thin Bronchoscope Under Virtual Bronchoscopic Navigation

Abstract

Background. It is occasionally difficult to visibly detect pulmonary peripheral small nodules in video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS), and pre-operative markings are useful in confirming the lesions and resection margins. The conventional way of percutaneous marking has a high risk of causing complications such as pneumothorax or bleeding. In addition, percutaneous punctures are sometimes contraindicated by the location of neighboring organs. Cases. We performed pre-operative barium marking using an ultrathin bronchoscope under virtual bronchoscopic navigation in two cases with pulmonary peripherai small nodules. Results. Five points were marked for the two lesions. During VATS, the markings were clearly detectable under fluoroscopy and the one near the pleura was found visibly. Pathological diagnoses were adenocarcinoma in both cases. Conclusion. This procedure was of benefit in detecting lesions and deciding on the resection margins in VATS for pulmonary peripheral small nodules.