Computed tomography-guided cyanoacrylate localization of small pulmonary nodules: Feasibility and initial experience

Abstract

Objectives: We report our initial technical experience with computed tomography (CT)-guided cyanoacrylate localization for resection of small pulmonary nodules (SPNs) and evaluate the feasibility of this technique. Methods: Between June 2016 and December 2017, the diagnostic results of 55 consecutive patients (69 SPNs) who underwent preoperative CT-guided cyanoacrylate localization and consequent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) resection were retrospectively evaluated. Localization-related outcomes and perioperative outcomes were assessed. Results: Preoperative CT-guided cyanoacrylate localization was successfully performed in all the cases. Simultaneous localization was achieved in 8 (14.5%) patients with 2 nodules and 3 (5.5%) patients with 3 nodules. The mean size of the nodules was 8.5 ± 3.2 mm (range 5-20 mm), and their mean depth from the nearest pleural surface was 10.9 ± 7.7 mm (range 2-36 mm). The overall mean localization procedural time was 13.7 ± 7.2 min (range 6-37 min). Two localization-related complications (intrapulmonary focal haemorrhage and pneumothorax) were observed in 7 (12.7%) and 12 (21.8%) patients, respectively. All patients with complications were asymptomatic and received conservative treatment only. All SPNs were resected under VATS without any conversion to minithoracotomy or thoracotomy. Conclusions: CT-guided cyanoacrylate localization is a feasible procedure to localize SPNs. The advantages of this technique include flexibility between insertion and excision, the ability to be applied to the whole lung field, a high success rate, patient comfort after insertion and a fast learning curve. Further studies are warranted to confirm the efficacy of this technique.