Dye-Marking via Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy (ENB): A New and Interdisciplinary Approach to the Management of Suspicious Pulmonary Nodules - Abstract
Background: Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy (ENB) is generally implemented as a diagnostic tool in the investigation of suspicious pulmonary nodules. The use of this technique to mark pulmonary nodules (using dye) prior to surgical resection could result in better outcome for patients by minimizing the risks related to surgery.
Materials und Methods: We present a clinical case where ENB was used as part of an interdisciplinary approach in the management of a suspicious pulmonary nodule. We analyzed the indication for this approach as well as the subsequent endoscopic procedure and post-interventional outcome.
Results: In a female patient (with a history of cervix carcinoma), ENB was used to mark a 2 mm sub-pleural nodule. The nodule was not palpable intra-operatively. The dye-marked pleural spot enabled the surgeon to perform a parenchyma-sparing wedge resection via Video-Assisted Thoracoscopy (VATS). The pathological findings ruled out malignancy.
Conclusion: Dye-Marking via ENB presents an interesting and new bronchoscopic technique which, as part of an interdisciplinary approach, may have a useful role in the management of suspicious pulmonary nodules. In the described case, therapy planning was successful and no procedure-related complications were observed.