Mobile 3D C-arm CT for Lung Tumor Localization Efficacy Analysis: a Prospective Clinical Trial

It is well known that video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is preferred to open surgery for lung resection because of the smaller incisions and optimized postoperative recovery, including a shorter length of hospitalization and much decreased local tenderness. Studies have shown less operative and post-operative morbidity with decreased operative times. However, for small nodules (i.e. lesions <1 cm or those at a distance more than 1.5cm from the lung periphery), adequate identification of the target nodule has been being difficult by VATS with necessity of more significant resection or thoracotomy conversion to ensure complete tumor resection.

In order to improve nodule localization, a variety of preoperative localization methods such as CT-guide hook wire or methyl blue dye localization have been proposed. It has been proved to be much easier to mark lung nodules and help guide resection during VATS. However, there are certain concerns. First, it is difficult to minimize the time between the localization procedure and the subsequent surgery in reality. Second, there is concern for patient safety, in particular pneumothorax or hemothorax, during transferred to and from the ward to the radiology suit and in the frequent delays and waiting in reception areas prior to transfer to operating theaters. Finally, interdepartmental transfers and delays can also increase the risk of hook wire dislodgement.

Theoretically, the aforementioned disadvantage could be solved by performing the localization procedure and the lung surgery in the same operating room environment. We performed single-step localization and removal of small pulmonary nodules in the hybrid OR equipped with floor-mounted C-arm cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the previous study. However, it costed a lot of money and every localization could only be performed in the hybrid OR. Mobile 3D C-arm CT is another form of CBCT. It depicts soft tissues with high contrast but also offer a more affordable solution with relative low cost. In this case series, we will investigate the use of a mobile 3D C-arm CT for single-step localization and removal of small pulmonary nodules.