Preoperative computed tomography-guided localization for lung nodules: localization needle versus coil

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Thoracic Surgery
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Preoperative localization of lung nodules (LN) is crucial for successful minimally invasive resection.
• Computed tomography (CT)-guided techniques are commonly employed for LN localization.
• Comparing localization methods ensures optimal patient outcomes and procedural efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical efficacy of CT-guided localization needles versus coil insertion for preoperative LN localization.
• To evaluate the technical success rates, complication profiles, and procedural durations of both localization methods.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study comparing two groups of patients undergoing CT-guided LN localization before video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).
• Group 1: 52 patients received CT-guided coil insertion (January 2018 - December 2019).
• Group 2: 41 patients received CT-guided localization needle insertion (January - June 2021).

Main Results:

• Technical localization success rates were high in both groups (96.8% for coils, 100% for needles; p=0.498).
• Localization needle insertion demonstrated a significantly shorter duration (p<0.001) compared to coil insertion.
• Both methods showed comparable rates of pneumothorax and hemorrhage, with 100% technical success for subsequent VATS resection.

Conclusions:

• Both CT-guided coil and localization needle insertion are effective for LN localization before VATS.
• Localization needle insertion offers a significant advantage by reducing the overall localization time.