Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 22, 2025
Author Spotlight: Advancing 3D Modeling for Enhanced Diagnosis and Treatment of Pulmonary Nodules in Early-Stage Lung Cancer
Published on: October 13, 2023
Preoperative virtual simulation for synchronous multiple primary lung cancers using three-dimensional computed
Weichun Wu1, Yimin Wu2, Gang Shen2
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, First People's Hospital of Yuhang District; Yuhang Branch of the Second Affiliated Hospital of the Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 369 Yingbin Road, Hangzhou, 311100, China.
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) combined with 3D-CT lung reconstruction (3D-CTLR) offers a simplified approach for synchronous multiple primary lung cancer (SMPLC) patients. This minimally invasive technique aids in precise surgical planning and execution for improved outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Synchronous multiple primary lung cancer (SMPLC) presents challenges due to varying nodule positions and sizes.
- Optimizing surgical strategies for SMPLC is crucial for maximizing long-term survival and preserving pulmonary function.
- Surgical resection is a viable option for select SMPLC patients, necessitating tailored approaches.
Observation:
- A case of SMPLC was managed using video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).
- Three-dimensional computed tomography lung reconstruction (3D-CTLR) was employed to visualize and reconstruct lung lobes with nodules.
- 3D-CTLR facilitated preoperative simulation and intraoperative guidance for the resection procedure.
Findings:
- The integrated VATS and 3D-CTLR approach proved technically simplified and feasible for SMPLC management.
- This method allowed for precise simulation of resection extent and method.
- Intraoperative guidance was effectively provided by the 3D-CTLR reconstruction.
Implications:
- This VATS-based strategy offers a less invasive alternative to traditional preoperative planning for SMPLC.
- The technique holds potential for improving surgical outcomes and lung function preservation in SMPLC patients.
- Further adoption of this combined approach may enhance the management of complex lung cancer cases.
