Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 16, 2026
Electromagnetic Navigation Transthoracic Nodule Localization for Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
Published on: May 4, 2022
Robotic-assisted bronchoscopic localization for small pulmonary nodules: a novel approach to minimally invasive
Qiduo Yu1, Haoshuai Yang1, Jingyu Chen1
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.
Background:
Precise intraoperative localization of small pulmonary nodules is crucial for minimally invasive lung surgery. Robotic bronchoscopy, combining electromagnetic navigation and fluorescence marking, addresses limitations of traditional methods.
Methods:
This feasibility study included 10 patients (mean age 58) with ground-glass/partially solid nodules (mean diameter 1.42 cm). Using the Monarch® robotic system, nodules were intraoperatively marked with fluorescent dye (indocyanine green/methylene blue). Segmentectomy (4) or wedge resection (6) was performed, with lobectomy added if needed.
Results:
All nodules were successfully localized (mean time 16.9 min) without complications. Resected specimens confirmed central nodule placement. Pathology identified primary lung cancer in all cases: 1 adenocarcinoma in situ, 3 microinvasive, and 6 invasive. Lobectomy was avoided in 4 segmentectomy cases but required in 5/6 wedge resections.
Conclusion:
Robotic bronchoscopic localization enables safe, precise intraoperative marking, minimizing healthy tissue resection. This pilot study supports its clinical potential, warranting larger trials for validation.
