Fire: argon plasma coagulation, diathermy and laser.

Area of Science:

• Interventional Pulmonology
• Minimally Invasive Airway Management

Background:

• Central airway obstruction presents a significant clinical challenge.
• Benign and malignant conditions can cause intrinsic central airway obstruction.
• Managing haemoptysis requires effective haemostasis techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review commonly used hot ablation therapies in interventional pulmonology.
• To examine the applications of argon plasma coagulation (APC), diathermy, and laser.
• To provide insights into technique selection, safety, and procedural nuances for airway pathologies.

Main Methods:

• Review of three hot ablation techniques: APC, diathermy, and laser.
• Discussion of their role in managing central airway obstruction and haemoptysis.
• Consideration of combination with other bronchoscopy techniques.

Main Results:

• APC is a non-contact method for superficial lesions and bleeding.
• Diathermy allows for debulking, resection, and coagulation via direct contact.
• Laser therapy uses heat for cutting and coagulation, often non-contact.

Conclusions:

• Hot ablation therapies are crucial for treating central airway obstruction and haemoptysis.
• Technique selection depends on patient factors, lesion location, and risks.
• Understanding indications, contraindications, and safety is vital for optimal patient outcomes.