Tandem Needle Technique Pleural Blood Patch Embolisation for Lung Ablations

This clinical study presents a new technique in tract embolisation to prevent pneumothorax formation in lung ablation. The tandem needle technique pleural blood patch (TNT PBP) involves insertion of a needle adjacent to the ablation applicator for injection at the pleura during applicator withdrawal.

Retrospective case series including TNT PBP embolisation procedures performed concomitantly with lung ablations within a one-year period at a tertiary institution. Patient factors, technical aspects, clinical and radiological outcomes are reviewed. Clinical success is defined as successful administration of blood patch and avoidance of need for chest drain. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests are performed.

12 patients underwent ablation/TNT PBP procedures for 14 lung tumours. All patients had multiple comorbidities and were considered high risk of pneumothorax formation. TNT PBP was successfully administered to all patients. 1/12 patients required a post-procedural chest drain. All but 1 patient experienced expected post-operative clinical pathway and were discharged the next day. On latest follow-up (233.7 ± 67.8 days), no procedure-related complications were demonstrated.

TNT PBP showed promising safety and efficacy profile. Further evaluations are required, and this is currently being investigated in a randomised controlled trial (Oxford Pleural Embolisation Trial, OxPET, NCT06651658).