WCLC 2025 - Posters & ePosters-P2.05.04 Electromagnetic Navigation-Guided 3D Conformal Microwave Ablation for High-Risk Peripheral Pulmonary Nodules

Pdf Summary

This study evaluates the clinical feasibility and safety of electromagnetic navigation-guided three-dimensional conformal microwave ablation (ENB-DCMA) as a minimally invasive treatment for high-risk peripheral pulmonary nodules (PPNs) in patients who are medically inoperable or refuse surgery. High-risk PPNs, often detected via imaging follow-up, typically require surgical resection for definitive diagnosis and treatment. However, 5%-10% of new patients cannot undergo surgery due to cardiopulmonary insufficiency or other health issues. Traditional alternative therapies have limited efficacy and safety, highlighting the need for new approaches.<br /><br />The retrospective study reviewed consecutive patients treated with ENB-DCMA between March 2021 and August 2023. This technique combines electromagnetic navigation for precise localization and a 3D conformal microwave ablation system that allows accurate, controlled thermal treatment of the nodule. The procedure involves bronchoscopic trans-parenchymal nodule access (BTPNA), enabling safe navigation to nodules even adjacent to vascular structures via adjustable prebent catheters calibrated to conform exactly to the spatial margins of the target lesion. This ensures adequate ablation coverage and allows for pathological sampling.<br /><br />Results demonstrated that ENB-DCMA is a safe and effective alternative for managing high-risk PPNs in patients who cannot undergo surgery, offering a paradigm shift in minimally invasive pulmonary cancer treatment. The approach integrates navigational accuracy with precise thermal control, potentially redefining the treatment model for these patients. While initial findings are promising, further prospective multicenter trials are needed to validate broader applicability and assess long-term outcomes comprehensively.<br /><br />In summary, ENB-DCMA represents a significant advancement for the management of high-risk peripheral lung nodules in medically inoperable patients, combining novel navigation-guided bronchoscopic technology with 3D conformal microwave ablation for improved local tumor control and patient safety.

Asset Subtitle

Yawei Liu

Meta Tag

Speaker Yawei Liu

Topic Pulmonology and Staging

Keywords

electromagnetic navigation

three-dimensional conformal microwave ablation

ENB-DCMA

high-risk peripheral pulmonary nodules

medically inoperable patients

bronchoscopic trans-parenchymal nodule access

minimally invasive treatment

pulmonary cancer

thermal ablation

pathological sampling