Real-time bronchoscope tip localization enables three-dimensional CT image guidance for transbronchial needle aspiration in swine.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the feasibility of using real-time bronchoscope position technology coupled with previously acquired three-dimensional CT data to enhance transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA).


METHODS
Eight swine were given percutaneously created target lesions for TBNA. A miniature position sensor was placed at the tip of a bronchoscope, and real-time position information during bronchoscopy was presented on a monitor simultaneously displaying previously acquired three-dimensional CT data.


METHODS
TBNA of target lesions and submucosal ink-spot injection of computer-generated targets.


RESULTS
TBNA specimens revealed successful aspiration of target material. Distances between ink marks made at computer-generated tracheal targets varied, on average (+/- SD), 4.2 mm +/- 2.6 mm from predetermined computer-distance coordinates.


CONCLUSIONS
Real-time bronchoscope position technology coupled with previously acquired CT images may aid with TBNA of nonvisible extrabronchial lesions.
Solomon
S B
SB
Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA. ssolomo@welchlink.welch.jhu.edu
White
P
P
Acker
D E
DE
Strandberg
J
J
Venbrux
A C
AC
D000818:Animals; D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D020680:Bronchoscopes; D001999:Bronchoscopy; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D015641:Radiography, Interventional; D013552:Swine; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014132:Trachea / Q000473:pathology