Localization of nonpalpable pulmonary nodules using CT-guided needle puncture

Surgical resection of small pulmonary nodule is challenging via thoracoscopic procedure. We describe our experience of computed tomography (CT)-guided needle puncture localization of indeterminate pulmonary nodules prior to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

From January 2011 to July 2014, 78 consecutive patients underwent CT-guided marking for the localization of 91 small pulmonary nodules. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data, technical details, surgical findings and pathologic results, and complications associated with CT-guided localization.

Seventy-eight consecutive patients (36 men and 42 women) underwent CT-guided marking localization of 91 indeterminate pulmonary nodules (62 pure ground-glass opacity nodules, 27 part-solid nodules, and 2 solid nodules). The mean size of the nodules was 8.6 mm (3.0–23.0 mm). The mean pleural distance between the nodule and lung surface was 11.5 mm (3.0–31.3 mm). The mean procedure time of CT-guided localization was 15.2 min (8–42 min). All patients stood the procedures well without requiring conversion to open thoracotomy. Twenty-four patients (30.77 %) developed pneumothorax after the procedures. Only one patient required retention of the puncture needle introducer for air drainage. The mean visual assessment pain score was 1.7 (0–3). Fifty-seven nodules (62.63 %) were confirmed as malignances, including 45 primary lung cancer, and 34 nodules (37.37 %) were confirmed as benign lesions.

CT-guided needle puncture can be an effective and safe procedure prior to VATS, enabling accurate resection and diagnosis of small pulmonary nodules.