Application and Advancement of Bronchoscopic Biopsy Techniques for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Nodules

Abstract

With the popularization of low-dose computed tomography scanning technology, the detection rate of pulmonary nodules has significantly increased, and the diagnosis of pulmonary nodules has become a critical issue in the medical field. Close monitoring and early detection of potentially malignant nodules are essential for improving patient survival. Bronchoscopic biopsy has shown remarkable results for the histological diagnosis of pulmonary nodules. Advances in this field have led to several innovative diagnostic tools, including endobronchial ultrasound, ultrathin bronchoscopy, virtual bronchoscopic navigation, electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy, and robotic-assisted bronchoscopy. The development of these techniques has greatly improved the diagnostic capabilities of bronchoscopy, especially for peripheral pulmonary nodules, thereby providing more effective diagnostic tools. We reviewed recent advances in interventional bronchoscopy for diagnosing and treating pulmonary nodules, with a particular focus on strategies for detecting peripheral pulmonary nodules.