Contemporary Concise Review 2024: New Techniques in Interventional Pulmonology

Abstract

Navigational bronchoscopy and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) guided bronchoscopy show comparable yields to percutaneous transthoracic needle biopsy of lung nodules. Robotic assisted bronchoscopy (RAB) with advanced imaging (CBCT or digital tomosynthesis) improves diagnostic yield further. Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) guided nodal cryobiopsy shows promise in certain clinical conditions. The thin EBUS convex probe (EBUS-CP) bronchoscope is on the horizon and has the potential to be the answer for the middle third. Guidelines and expert recommendations are sometimes needed where larger trial evidence may be lacking. Artificial intelligence is still finding its place in practice but shows promise for education and training.