Preoperative localization of indeterminate pulmonary nodules before videothoracoscopic resection.
BACKGROUND
The management of a solitary pulmonary nodule is the subject of debate and minimally invasive diagnostic approaches have low sensitivity for small peripheral nodules. We discuss the role of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) in the management of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) < or = 1 cm performed with a preoperative computed tomography-guided wire localization.


METHODS
Thirty-five selected patients underwent VATS resection for SPN, with localization by guide wire before surgery.


RESULTS
Seven patients, after VATS exploration, underwent thoracotomy because of pleuropulmonary adhesions, depth or dimensions. Histological diagnosis was obtained in all procedures; there was no postoperative morbidity or morbidity.


CONCLUSIONS
Preoperative computed tomography hook-wire localization is a suitable strategy for peripheral nodules < or = 1 cm in diameter.
Paci
M
M
First Department of Surgery, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Santa Maria Nuova Hospital, viale Risorgimento 80, 42100 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
Annessi
V
V
Giovanardi
F
F
Ferrari
G
G
De Franco
S
S
Casali
C
C
Sgarbi
G
G
D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D003074:Solitary Pulmonary Nodule / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D020775:Thoracic Surgery, Video-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed