[Application of computerized tomography to transthoracic puncture]

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Radiology
• Oncology

Context:

• Peripheral pulmonary lesions often evade diagnosis via standard bronchoscopy.
• Accurate localization of lung nodules is crucial for effective biopsy.
• Computed tomography (CT) provides detailed anatomical visualization for interventional procedures.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of CT-guided transthoracic puncture for diagnosing peripheral pulmonary lesions.
• To determine the diagnostic yield of cytology and tru-cut biopsy in this patient cohort.
• To assess complication rates associated with the procedure.

Summary:

• CT-guided transthoracic puncture was performed on 70 patients with peripheral pulmonary lesions.
• The procedure involved cytology (64 cases) and tru-cut biopsy (23 cases) or needle biopsy (6 cases).
• CT enabled precise tumor localization and identification of necrotic zones, improving diagnostic accuracy. Sensitivity for malignancy reached 90% (cytology + biopsy), with 94% specificity. Histological diagnosis was achieved in neoplastic and some benign cases. Overall complication rate was 9%, with no fatal outcomes.

Impact:

• CT-guided transthoracic puncture is a highly sensitive and safe diagnostic tool for peripheral lung malignancies.
• The technique improves diagnostic yield compared to fibroscopy alone.
• Low complication rates support its clinical utility in managing peripheral pulmonary lesions.