CT-Directed microcoil localization of small peripheral lung nodules: a feasibility study in pigs

Platinum microcoils were placed in porcine lungs to determine the feasibility for use as a lung nodule marker. Using computed tomography (CT) guidance, the microcoils were successfully deployed in 17 out of 19 attempts. Coil deployment depth ranged from 7 mm to 34 mm below the pleural surface. Moderate pneumothorax was detected after 3 of 19 microcoil insertions. No hemothorax or significant pulmonary hemorrhage was noted. Fluoroscopic guided thoracoscopic resection was successful in 10 of 12 attempts. Platinum microcoils can be safely and easily deployed into the lung parenchyma with minimal complication risk, and can be used to guide subsequent thoracoscopic wedge resection.