Lung cancer therapy in the hybrid OR with iVATS

Since low-dose CT technology has become established, the detection of small lung nodules has steadily increased [1]. Due to the risk of false-negative results, biopsies are not always the optimal method for reporting. This is why minimally invasive surgery may be indicated to determine the tumor type and remove malignant tissue.Traditionally, minimally invasive removal of small lung nodules has been performed in two separate steps at different times: First, location of the tumor using CT imaging; then, removal of the tumor in the operating room. However, this approach involved avoidable risks, such as the displacement of the needle used to remove the tumor, internal bleeding, or the onset of pneumothorax.

Professor Yin-Kai Chao of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taoyuan, Taiwan, and his team have perfected a procedure in which 3D imaging and laser-guided needle placement together with minimally invasive removal of lung nodules is performed in a single step (iVATS).