Advances in navigating to the nodule and targeting

The multitude of available platforms and imaging modalities for navigational bronchoscopy, in combination with the various sampling tools that can be used intra-procedurally, is complex. This review seeks to describe the recent developments in peripheral bronchoscopy in regards to navigation, imaging, and sampling target lesions in the pulmonary parenchyma.

Robotic assisted bronchoscopy has improved navigation to the peripheral airways for sampling of peripheral parenchymal lesions. These navigational platforms use innovative technology utilizing electromagnetic navigation and shape-sensing technology for guidance. The greatest improvement has been the stabilization of the robotic scope in the periphery to allow for accurate sampling. Despite improvements in these platforms, limitations of CT to body divergence continue to impact navigation to the lesion and therefore diagnostic yield of the procedure. Advanced intraprocedural imaging with cone beam CT or augmented fluoroscopy has been a recent focus to improve this area. Further, the adoption of newer sampling tools, such as cryobiopsy, offers the possibility of increased diagnostic yield.

The developments in advanced bronchoscopy will impact the role of biopsy in the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary parenchymal lesions.